Pediatric Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is an infection that can cause a variety of digestive issues, including diarrhea, stomach cramping and vomiting.
What is Pediatric Gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is typically a short-term (acute) illness that is triggered by infection and inflammation of the digestive system. If a child is generally healthy, they should recover fairly easily. However, if a child has a compromised (weakened) immune system, recovery from gastroenteritis may take longer.
What are the different types of Pediatric Gastroenteritis?
The main types of gastroenteritis include:
Bacterial
Bacterial type is caused by bacteria.
Parasitic
Parasitic type is caused by a parasite.
Viral
Viral is also known as the stomach flu, this type is caused by a virus.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Gastroenteritis?
Bloating
Blood or pus in the stool
Body aches
Cramping and pain in the abdomen
Fever
Reduced appetite
What are the causes of Pediatric Gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis has a variety of potential causes, including:
Bacteria – spread through ingesting harmful bacteria, such as by consuming contaminated food or drink
Parasite – spread through ingesting a parasite, such as by drinking contaminated water
Virus – spread through coming into close contact with an infected person, including bodily fluids like saliva
Pediatric Gastroenteritis Doctors and Providers
