Overview:
Acute Gastroenteritis (AGE) is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. This condition leads to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration. AGE is highly contagious and spreads easily through contaminated food, water, or close contact with infected individuals.

Causes:
AGE is commonly caused by viruses such as norovirus and rotavirus, bacteria like Salmonella and Escherichia coli, or parasites including Giardia. Consuming contaminated food or water and poor sanitation practices significantly increase the risk of infection.

Symptoms:
Symptoms of AGE include sudden onset of diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, fever, and sometimes dehydration. In severe cases, dehydration can lead to dizziness, dry mouth, reduced urination, and extreme fatigue, requiring immediate medical attention.

Treatment:
Treatment for AGE primarily focuses on rehydration, either through oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or intravenous fluids in severe cases. Over-the-counter medications may help manage symptoms, but antibiotics are only recommended for specific bacterial infections.

Precautions:
To reduce the spread of AGE, individuals should practice good hand hygiene, avoid contaminated food and water, and maintain proper food preparation practices. Isolating infected individuals also helps prevent spreading the infection.

Prevention:
Preventive measures include frequent handwashing, especially before meals, drinking clean water, and avoiding street food or food prepared under unsanitary conditions. Vaccinations are available for certain causes of gastroenteritis, like rotavirus, to prevent infections in young children.

For gastroenteritis treatment and rehydration support, visit KDM Hospital in Lucknow, providing prompt medical care, 24/7 doctor availability, and Ayushman card acceptance for accessible health services.