What is gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis, commonly known as gastro, is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It is extremely common in Australia, with millions of cases occurring each year. Gastro causes symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever.
Most cases of gastro are caused by viruses such as norovirus or rotavirus and are highly contagious. The infection is typically spread through contaminated food or water, or through close contact with an infected person. While unpleasant, most cases resolve within a few days with appropriate self-care.
When to see a doctor about gastro
While most gastro resolves on its own, you should see a GP if you are unable to keep fluids down for more than 24 hours, you have signs of dehydration (dizziness, dark urine, dry mouth), you notice blood in your vomit or stool, you have a high fever, or your symptoms are not improving after several days.
Certain groups are at higher risk of complications from gastro, including young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. If you or a family member in these groups develops gastro, it is advisable to seek medical advice earlier. If you experience severe dehydration or are unable to stand, call 000.
How a telehealth GP can help with gastro
Telehealth is ideal for gastro consultations because you can see a doctor without leaving home while you are unwell and potentially infectious. Your GP can assess the severity of your symptoms, provide guidance on rehydration and symptom management, and prescribe anti-nausea medication if clinically appropriate.
Your GP can also issue a medical certificate if you need time off work, advise on when it is safe to return to work or childcare, and recommend further investigation if your symptoms suggest something beyond typical viral gastro. If needed, they can arrange a gastroenterologist referral.
Treatment options for gastro
The primary treatment for gastro is maintaining hydration. Your GP may recommend oral rehydration solutions, small frequent sips of clear fluids, and a gradual return to normal eating as symptoms improve. Resting at home is important both for recovery and to avoid spreading the infection.
If your GP determines that medication may help manage your symptoms, they can discuss options such as anti-nausea medication. Antibiotics are not routinely prescribed for gastro as most cases are viral, but your GP may consider them if a bacterial cause is suspected.
To prevent spreading gastro, your GP may advise thorough hand washing, staying home until 48 hours after symptoms resolve, not preparing food for others while symptomatic, and cleaning contaminated surfaces with appropriate disinfectants.