What Are Gastrointestinal Infections?
Gastrointestinal (GI) infections affect the stomach and intestines and can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Common conditions include viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu), bacterial food poisoning from organisms such as Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter, parasitic infections like Giardia, and Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections often associated with antibiotic use. Symptoms typically include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and sometimes fever.
Identifying the Cause Matters
While many GI infections resolve on their own with rest and hydration, others require targeted medical treatment. Bacterial and parasitic infections may need specific antibiotics or antiparasitic medications, while viral infections are managed supportively. Dr. Rao evaluates the duration and severity of symptoms, recent food history, travel history, and antibiotic use to determine the most likely cause and appropriate course of action. Stool cultures or lab testing may be ordered when a specific pathogen is suspected.
Find Out Which Tests You Need, Book a Consultation.
What to Expect
At your appointment, Dr. Rao will review your symptoms, assess your hydration status, and develop a treatment plan tailored to the type and severity of your infection. For mild cases, guidance on dietary management and oral rehydration is provided. More severe or prolonged cases may require laboratory work or prescription treatment. Follow-up is scheduled as needed, and patients experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms are encouraged to reach out through the patient portal or contact our office directly.