Gastroenteritis dehydration symptoms

Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 02, 2024
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Gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, mainly occurs due to simultaneous infections in the stomach and intestinal mucosa by bacteria or viruses. The primary clinical symptoms are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and watery stools—some experience it five or six times a day, and others more than ten times a day. Increased frequency of stools can lead to symptoms of dehydration. Excessive loss of body fluids can cause electrolyte imbalance and dehydration, presenting symptoms such as pale complexion, cold limbs, fever, and decreased blood pressure. In such cases, it is essential to go to the hospital for intravenous fluids as soon as possible. Oral rehydration solutions can also be used, but if the patient experiences severe nausea and vomiting, intravenous administration of glucose, saline, and potassium chloride is necessary. (Please rehydrate under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Can acute gastroenteritis cause shock?

Acute gastroenteritis often manifests as symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, sometimes accompanied by fever, dizziness, fatigue, etc., often caused by factors such as exposure to cold or improper diet. These include what we refer to as viral enteritis and bacterial enteritis. In most cases, symptoms gradually alleviate after symptomatic treatment, and some may improve without treatment. However, a few patients, such as those with uncontrollable vomiting and diarrhea, coupled with an inability to eat, may experience worsening dizziness, significant fatigue, dry mouth, poor skin elasticity, and reduced urine output. These symptoms indicate the development of hypovolemic shock, which requires attention.

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Is acute gastroenteritis a stomach disease?

Acute gastroenteritis is generally considered an infectious disease, not merely a stomach ailment. Clinically, acute gastroenteritis is commonly thought to be caused by viruses or bacteria, especially due to insufficient hygiene. The typical clinical manifestations include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Of course, some patients may also experience fever. Diarrhea and vomiting are the most common symptoms observed clinically, with vomiting generally involving stomach contents without blood. Diarrhea is characterized by an increased frequency of bowel movements, with stools being loose and watery, particularly frequent at night, making the symptoms of diarrhea especially prominent in patients seeking medical attention. Treatment for patients generally focuses on symptomatic relief, although in cases of recurrent fever, the cautious use of antibiotics may be considered. (Please use medications under the guidance of a professional physician.)

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What should I do about acute gastroenteritis?

Acute gastroenteritis typically presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting, and sometimes accompanied by fever and chills. In such cases, it is important to rest, keep warm, avoid cold, and follow a diet that is light and easy to digest, such as rice porridge, soft noodles, etc. It is advisable to avoid raw, greasy, spicy, and alcoholic foods. Treatment should be based on the specific cause. For viral infections causing gastroenteric flu, antiviral and antidiarrheal astringents are commonly used. For bacterial infections causing infectious diarrhea, antibacterial and antidiarrheal treatments are needed, typically involving cephalosporins or quinolones. Generally, symptoms will gradually ease.

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What to avoid eating with gastroenteritis

Patients with gastroenteritis need to pay special attention to their diet, especially avoiding spicy, greasy, and irritating foods. They should also avoid strong tea and coffee, as these are necessary to abstain from. It is advisable to consume more bland or easily digestible foods, such as noodles, egg custard, and rice soup. Under strict dietary control, if symptoms do not improve, medication may be necessary. Common medications include those that suppress gastric acid secretion and protect the gastric mucosa, as well as antibiotics. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Can I drink soy milk with acute gastroenteritis?

Patients with acute gastroenteritis should drink less soy milk during the onset of the disease. Although soy milk is rich in protein, it is not easy to digest and can aggravate the symptoms of gastroenteritis. The patient's diet should consist of eating smaller meals more frequently, focusing on foods that are easy to digest and low in fat. They can appropriately consume rice soup, noodles, and porridge. It is especially important to pay attention to food hygiene, washing hands before meals and after using the bathroom, and thoroughly heating up overnight food before eating. Avoid consuming raw, cold, spicy, or stimulating foods. Regular physical exercise should be maintained, and appropriate changes in clothing should be made on time with the change of seasons.