What is a gastrointestinal infection? 

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There are a number of bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause gastrointestinal (GI) infections. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Trusted Source, diarrheal diseases account for 1 in 9 child deaths worldwide. It affects 2,195 children every day — more than AIDS, malaria, and measles combined.

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Although they can continue for as long as 14 days, GI infections usually last a few days. They’re characterized by abdominal cramps and discomfort followed by diarrhea. Other symptoms might include:

• nausea

• vomiting

• fever

• loss of appetite

• muscle aches

• dehydration

• headache

• mucus or blood in the stool

• weight loss

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Common causes of gastrointestinal infections include:

• Bacterial

• Viral

• Parasite

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When to see your doctor?

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Adults

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See your doctor right away if you:

• have a fever above 104°F (40°C)

• have an inability to keep liquids down for 24 hours

• are vomiting for more than 48 hours

• are vomiting blood

• are becoming dehydrated: excessive thirst, dry mouth, little or no urine (or deep yellow urine), extreme weakness, lightheadedness or dizziness

• have blood in your bowel movements

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Children

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See your pediatrician right away if your child:

• has a fever of above 102°F (39°C)

• is experiencing a lot of discomfort or pain

• appears lethargic

• is very irritable

• has bloody diarrhea

• appears dehydrated

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To tell if your child is dehydrated, you can monitor how much they’re drinking and urinating and compare to their typical amount.

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Infants

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Get your baby to their pediatrician right away if they:

• have been vomiting (not just normal spitting up) for more than several hours

• have a dry mouth

• haven’t had a wet diaper in six hours

• cries without tears

• has severe diarrhea

• has bloody stools

• is unresponsive

• is unusually drowsy or sleepy

• has a sunken soft spot on the top of their head