Index
What is Gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by an infection. It affects digestion and leads to symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
It can affect anyone and is often short-lived, but severe or prolonged cases can lead to dehydration and disrupt daily life.
What Causes Gastroenteritis?
Infections
- Viral infections (most common)
- Bacterial food poisoning
- Contaminated water
Lifestyle Factors
- Poor food hygiene
- Close contact with infected individuals
What Are the Common Symptoms of Gastroenteritis?
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps or abdominal pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, reduced urine output)
How Is Gastroenteritis Diagnosed?
A GP will ask about your symptoms, recent foods, fluid intake, and travel history.
During an online consultation, a GP can:
- Assess the severity of symptoms and dehydration risk
- Recommend self-care measures
- Prescribe anti-sickness or anti-diarrhoeal medication if appropriate
An in-person consultation may be required for:
- Stool or blood tests
- IV fluids for dehydration
- Severe or prolonged symptoms
How Long Does Gastroenteritis Last?
- Mild cases: 1–3 days
- Moderate cases: up to 7 days
- Severe cases: may require medical intervention and can last longer
Is Gastroenteritis Contagious?
Yes, viral and bacterial gastroenteritis can spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact with infected individuals. Good hand hygiene is important.
How to Feel Better and Recover Quickly
Self-Care at Home
- Drink small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solutions
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity
- Eat light, bland foods when able
- Wash hands regularly to prevent spreading infection
Treatment from a GP
- Anti-sickness medication
- Anti-diarrhoeal medication in selected cases
- Antibiotics only if a bacterial cause is confirmed
When Referral Is Needed
- Persistent dehydration
- Severe abdominal pain
- Travel-related or unusual infections
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Go to A&E or call 999 if:
- You cannot keep fluids down
- Blood in stools
- Severe dehydration
- Very high fever
- Severe abdominal pain
Use urgent care instead of online GP services if:
- Vomiting lasts longer than 48 hours
- Symptoms persist beyond 5–7 days
- Signs of dehydration appear
How Dr.Online UK Can Help
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Advice and reassurance
- Private prescriptions if appropriate
- Fit notes or referral letters
- Guidance on hydration, recovery, and symptom management
