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Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is a stomach infection typically caused by viruses such as rotavirus or norovirus. Many people refer to gastroenteritis as the “stomach flu.” Because of new vaccines, the number of children hospitalized by gastroenteritis has dropped dramatically over the years.

Symptoms of gastroenteritis include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, stomach cramps and a lack of energy.

Gastroenteritis with diarrhea may cause dehydration in small children, especially infants. Dehydration may be prevented if your child is able to eat and drink.

Signs of dehydration may include dry lips and urinating less than normal. Other signs of a severe illness include high fever, blood or mucus in the stool, blood in the vomit, dark green vomit or difficulty waking up. If your child has these symptoms, you should seek medical attention. Severe dehydration can cause serious problems such as shock or damage to multiple organs.

Diagnosis of Gastroenteritis

Doctors at Riley at IU Health can diagnose gastroenteritis and dehydration with simple exams, including:

  • Medical history. Your child’s doctor will ask many questions during the medical history exam, including questions about your child's symptoms. The doctor may want to know when symptoms started and which symptoms your child is showing.
  • Physical exam. During a physical exam, the doctor will take your child’s temperature and listen to his or her heartbeat to check for symptoms of gastroenteritis.

Treatments

Most children with gastroenteritis can be treated at home with medicines that reduce fever (like acetaminophen), rest and plenty of fluids. Oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte are often the best fluids for children with gastroenteritis. Sports drinks and sodas should be limited due to their high sugar content, which can worsen diarrhea.

Children who are dehydrated are admitted to the hospital to receive intravenous fluids. Medicines may be used to treat symptoms of gastroenteritis but are not used to cure the condition itself. 

Key Points to Remember

  • Gastroenteritis (or the "stomach flu") is a stomach infection typically caused by viruses such as rotavirus or norovirus.
  • Symptoms of gastroenteritis include vomiting, diarrhea and fever.
  • Gastroenteritis can cause dehydration, especially in small children.
  • Dehydration needs medical attention in order to prevent damage to organs.
  • In most cases, gastroenteritis can be treated at home with rest, fluids and medicines that reduce fever.

Support Services & Resources

To find out more about gastroenteritis, please visit the websites below:

Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.

Learn More About Riley Support Services

American Academy of Pediatrics

This website includes tips on how to prevent and treat gastroenteritis and stomach viruses at home.

Departments Treating This Condition