An intestinal infection is usually caused by consuming food or water that is contaminated with bacteria, parasites or a virus. It leads to symptoms like a fever, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. Intestinal infections are more likely to occur in children, older adults or people with a chronic illness, as these populations tend to have a weaker immune system-

In most cases, intestinal infections can be treated at home with rest, hydration and a light diet. However, it is important to see your doctor if your symptoms persist for longer than 3 days, or if children have fever, vomiting and/or diarrhea for more than 2 days.

It is possible to prevent an intestinal infection by maintaining good hygiene habits and by making sure you prepare your food safely. You should wash your hands after using the bathroom, for example, and make sure you wash your vegetables well.

Common symptoms

The main symptoms of an intestinal infection include:

Cramps and abdominal pain
Constipation or diarrhea, with possible blood in the stool
Vomiting
Headache
Increased gas
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Fever

Symptoms of an intestinal infection can emerge immediately after consuming contaminated food or water, or within 3 days of intake or coming in contact with it. The symptoms that appear depend on the type of microorganism, the severity of the infection, your age and your general health status.

It is important to remember that these symptoms can be more intense in children and older adults, as their immune systems are more fragile, making the spread of the microorganism easier. These populations are more at-risk for weight loss and dehydration, which can lead to further complications.

Main causes

Intestinal infections can occur due to the presence of microogranisms in food or water. The main microorganisms that can cause an intestinal infection include:

Bacteria: Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Listeria spp., Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens, Staphylococcus aureus;
Parasites: Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, Toxoplasma gondii;
Viruses: hepatitis A, rotavirus, norovirus.

People with a weaker immune system, like people with AIDS, people undergoing cancer treatment, children, pregnant women or older adults, have a higher chance of contacting an intestinal infection.

In addition, people who have gastritis or heartburn, or who take medication to control stomach acid production (like omeprazole) are also at higher risk for contacting an intestinal infection, as they produce less stomach acid, making it more difficult to get rid of viruses and bacteria.

Treatment options

Treatment for intestinal infections is aimed at relieving symptoms. Patients are advised to rest, drink plenty of fluids and eat light meals or snacks that are easy to digest, like cooked white rice, unseasoned white meat, and strained fruit juices. Read more about what to eat for diarrhea and which foods you should avoid.

In addition, you should also avoid anti-diarrhea medication, as these can interfere with elimination of the infectious agent. Using these types of medications can prolong symptoms and lead to complications, which is why you should consult your doctor before taking any diarrhea medicine.

In some cases, the doctor may prescribe medication, like antibiotics for bacterial infections or analgesics for abdominal discomfort. Probiotics may also be recommended to replenish bacterial flora and give the intestines an extra boost to treat the infection.

How to prevent an intestinal infection

To prevent intestinal infections, it is important to partake in proper hand hygiene and food preparation measures. Examples include:

Washing hands after using the bathroom or after touching pets
Washing your hands before and after touching any food
Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or eggs
Drink filtered or pre-boiled water

While you have symptoms, it is also important to avoid preparing food for other people, to prevent transmitting the infection to others. You should also avoid eating foods that can further irritate the bowels.