Bacterial Gastroenteritis With Infectious Diarrhea

Bacterial gastroenteritis with infectious diarrhea is an inflammation of the digestive tract caused by bacteria, which mainly presents with diarrhea. It is usually acquired through contaminated food or water and, in many cases, is self-limiting.

Common symptoms:

• Diarrhea, sometimes with mucus or blood
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Nausea, vomiting, or fever

When to see a doctor? Dehydration is the main concern; it is best to seek care if there are signs of dehydration, high fever, blood in the stools, or if it affects young children or older adults.

Which specialist treats it? The general practitioner, the gastroenterologist, the infectious disease specialist and, in children, the pediatrician can evaluate it. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, a timely consultation helps prevent complications and get the appropriate instructions.