Is gastroenteritis contagious?

Written by Yang Chun Guang

Gastroenterology

Updated on January 06, 2025

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Whether gastroenteritis is contagious depends on the cause of the inflammation. For example, if a person develops abdominal pain and diarrhea from getting cold, this type of gastroenteritis, caused by chilling, is not contagious, so it will not spread from person to person. However, if the gastroenteritis is caused by bacterial dysentery (commonly known as bacillary dysentery), it can be spread through food. Therefore, whether gastroenteritis is contagious depends on the infecting pathogen and the cause; it cannot be generalized.

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Written by Huang Gang

Gastroenterology

55sec

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Acute gastroenteritis pain level

The level of pain in acute gastroenteritis is generally divided into ten levels clinically: levels one to three are mild, four to six are moderate, and seven to ten are severe. This classification is mainly based on the patient's expression and self-perceived intensity of pain. In cases of acute gastroenteritis, there is often the possibility of experiencing spasms, or pain stimuli might trigger inflammatory infections. Generally, the pain is often above level eight. However, if there is mild pain, or it does not accompany fever, it is usually around level one to three. Therefore, once a patient experiences abdominal pain, an intramuscular injection of scopolamine butylbromide can be used to relieve the pain and help the patient stabilize.

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Written by Zhai Guo Dong

Gastroenterology

36sec

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How to alleviate gastroenteritis pain

Gastritis pain often falls into the category of spasmodic pain. We can provide patients with appropriate gastrointestinal antispasmodics, such as Atropine tablets, which can have a symptomatic effect. Additionally, we advise patients to avoid using painkillers, as common analgesics may mask the symptoms. Therefore, we only provide symptomatic treatment for spasms. If the symptoms do not improve and the pain intensifies, we still recommend that patients undergo further examinations to rule out conditions such as gastrointestinal obstruction or other complications like perforations.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin

Gastroenterology

39sec

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Does acute gastroenteritis cause stomach pain?

Acute gastroenteritis, due to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, can cause gastric colic. Clinically, it may manifest as upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It often occurs in the summer and is directly related to improper diet. It can cause not only stomach pain but also electrolyte imbalance, intestinal perforation, and sepsis. Active use of medications should be undertaken for treatment, with attention to prevent dehydration. During the treatment period, eat a light diet, avoid spicy food, rest well, and keep the abdominal area warm.

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Written by Si Li Li

Gastroenterology

1min 5sec

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How to deal with acute gastroenteritis?

Acute gastroenteritis is primarily caused by unsanitary eating habits or exposure to cold, spicy, and other irritants, leading to acute inflammation. The main symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or fever, and a routine blood test may show elevated white blood cells and neutrophils. If these symptoms appear, it is advisable to visit a hospital promptly for a routine blood test. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, doctors will treat with anti-inflammatory fluids, antiemetics, antidiarrheals, etc. Generally, mild acute gastroenteritis can be cured within two to three days of treatment. However, some patients may experience severe vomiting and diarrhea, leading to dehydration, electrolyte disorders, and even shock, which would extend the required treatment duration.

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Written by Li Ying

Gastroenterology

52sec

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Where does acute gastroenteritis come from?

Acute gastroenteritis is primarily an acute inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa. It is mainly characterized by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, and is commonly seen in the summer and autumn seasons. It is primarily caused by improper diet, overeating, or consumption of raw, spoiled, or unclean food. The condition is mainly due to bacterial or toxin infection, often seen in group outbreaks or family clusters. It can be caused by the consumption of infected fish, meat, poultry, or seafood, or by leftovers contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, among others. Moreover, accidental ingestion of strong acids, strong alkalis, or certain pesticides can also cause this disease.