The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Infectious Diarrhea (Gastroenteritis)

Gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites, presenting with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Infectious Diarrhea (Gastroenteritis)?

Infectious gastroenteritis is an acute infection affecting the stomach and intestines, caused by bacteria (Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli), viruses (norovirus, rotavirus), or parasites (Giardia, Cryptosporidium). The fecal-oral route, contaminated water, and foods are the main routes of transmission.

The disease usually resolves spontaneously; however, fluid-electrolyte loss (dehydration) poses a serious risk, especially for infants, the elderly, and chronic patients. Cases with bloody diarrhea, fever, and systemic symptoms may be of bacterial origin and should be evaluated more carefully.

Antibiotics are ineffective in viral gastroenteritis; supportive treatment is also sufficient in many mild bacterial cases. Hand washing and safe food preparation are the most effective methods in prophylaxis.

Symptoms

Sudden-onset diarrhea (watery or bloody)
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal cramps and pain
Fever (common in bacterial cases)
Weakness and muscle pain
Dry mouth and decreased urine due to dehydration
Dizziness and rapid heartbeat (in severe fluid loss)

Risk Factors

Consumption of contaminated food and water
Inadequate hand washing
Travel (especially to developing countries)
Daycare and communal living areas
Immune system suppression
Infant and child age group
Raw or undercooked meat and seafood

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Bloody or mucous diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
  • Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, altered consciousness — EMERGENCY)
  • Fever persisting above 38.5°C
  • In infants, the elderly, or individuals with suppressed immunity
  • If symptoms do not improve in 72 hours

Treatment Methods

01
Fluid-electrolyte replacement with oral rehydration solution (ORS)
02
Intravenous fluids (in severe dehydration or vomiting)
03
No special dietary restriction is required; small portions, light foods are recommended
04
Antibiotics only in certain bacterial cases by physician decision
05
Hand hygiene and food safety (protection and prevention of transmission)
06
Rotavirus vaccine (gastroenteritis prevention in infants)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Flu (Influenza)

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Influenza is a seasonal contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses; it presents with high fever, muscle pain, and severe fatigue.

COVID-19

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus with a wide clinical spectrum ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Upper respiratory tract infections are diseases that include common cold, pharyngitis, sinusitis, and laryngitis, often of viral origin and self-limited.

Urinary Tract Infection

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Urinary tract infections are common bacterial infections most often caused by Escherichia coli, presenting with burning and frequent urination.

Hepatitis A (HAV)

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Hepatitis A is an acute, self-limited liver infection transmitted via the fecal-oral route causing acute hepatitis without chronicity; supportive care suffices in most cases, while vaccination prevents outbreaks and post-exposure prophylaxis within 2 weeks is effective.

Hepatitis B

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Hepatitis B is a contagious infection caused by HBV virus transmitted via blood, sexual intercourse, and mother-to-child, that can become chronic and progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Hepatitis C

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by HCV virus transmitted mainly by blood; the rate of chronicity is high, but cure is possible with new antiviral drugs.

HIV/AIDS Information

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

HIV is a virus that targets the immune system; if untreated, it progresses to AIDS. With modern antiretroviral therapy, HIV-positive individuals can lead healthy, long lives.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.