Gastrointestinal infections occur when a person consumes bacteria or parasites that are harmful to the gastrointestinal system. A person who has ingested a harmful bacteria or parasite may experience common symptoms of a gastrointestinal infection such as diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Patients may also show signs of secondary gastrointestinal infection symptoms ranging from loss of appetite and fatigue to stomach cramps.
Diarrhea or loose stools are usually not something a person needs to worry about if it happens only once. Chronic diarrhea, on the other hand, is at the top of the list of gastrointestinal infection symptoms. A person suffering from a gastrointestinal infection may have watery diarrhea several times an hour. Stomach pain can accompany diarrhea.
A person suffering from ongoing diarrhea will usually have to leave school or work and stay near a bathroom until the infection leaves their body. If a person notices blood in the stool, he should call a doctor. Symptoms of gastrointestinal infection, such as excessive diarrhea, can also make a person dangerously dehydrated. People with such an infection should make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or sports drinks that contain electrolytes.
Many times diarrhea caused by a gastrointestinal infection will be accompanied by a fever. A person can take some over-the-counter pain relievers to try to bring down a fever. Getting enough rest is also vital for people recovering from intestinal problems.
Certain types of bacteria, such as salmonella, can cause other symptoms of a gastrointestinal infection, such as vomiting. People commonly get salmonella from eating raw or raw eggs or chicken. People sick with Salmonella bacteria may vomit violently for several days. Salmonella can also be contagious, so infected people should stay away from others and wash their hands thoroughly. People can prevent future salmonella outbreaks by making sure they don't cross-contaminate cutting boards and knives used with raw meats while cooking.
People with gastrointestinal infections of any kind may feel extremely tired and experience a loss of appetite. If a person suffering from a gastrointestinal problem is not hungry, then he or she should try sucking on ice chips or eating crackers. A person suffering from a stomach infection should limit themselves to inconspicuous activities such as reading, napping, and watching television. It is not recommended to exercise or do other strenuous activities while the body is dehydrated.