IN THIS ARTICLE
Bacteria (Clostridium difficile, Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter, and E coli)
Bacteria may cause gastroenteritis directly by infecting the lining of the stomach and intestine. Some bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus produce a toxin that is the cause of the symptoms. Staph is a common cause of food poisoning.
Escherichia coli infection can cause significant complications. E. coli O157:H7 (one type of the bacteria) can cause complications in approximately 10% of affected individuals (for example, kidney failure in children [hemolytic-uremic syndrome or HUS], bloody diarrhea, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura [TTP] in the elderly.
Salmonella, Shigella and Campylobacter
Salmonella, Shigella and Campylobacter are also common causes of illness.
Clostridium difficile (C difficile) bacteria may overgrow in the large intestine after a person has been on antibiotics for an infection. Although almost any antibiotic can lead to this condition, the most common antibiotics that pose a potential risk for C difficile include:
Other risk factors for C difficile infection include hospitalization, individuals 65 years of age or older, and pre-existing chronic medical conditions.
The CDC lists C. Difficile as one of the most common causes of death due to gastroenteritis and suggest that new strains of the bacteria have become more aggressive and dangerous.
Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 11/16/2016
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Must Read Articles Related to Gastroenteritis
Patient Comments & Reviews
The eMedicineHealth doctors ask about Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu):
Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) - Experience
Please share your experience with the stomach flu or gastroenteritis.
Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) - Causes
What caused your Stomach Flu?
Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) - Treatment
What treatment was effective for your gastroenteritis (stomach flu)?
Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) - Symptoms
How long did the symptoms of your gastroenteritis (stomach flu) last? Was there anything in particular that helped with pain/symptom relief?
Digestive Disorders Resources
- Tummy Troubles a Sign of Uveitis?
- What is Castleman Disease?
- Your Treatment Options for Constipation