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Understanding Bacterial Gastroenteritis
The connection between your digestive system and your brain is undeniable. By supporting gut health, you can address underlying causes of brain fog and promote better cognitive health.
Bacterial gastroenteritis is a stomach and gut infection caused by harmful bacteria. It leads to diarrhea, cramps, and dehydration. In Houston’s warm weather, food can spoil fast—so it’s important to understand how this illness works.
At GastroDoxs, Dr. Bharat Pothuri helps local families stay safe and feel better. This guide explains what bacterial gastroenteritis is, its causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention tips. You’ll also learn when to see a doctor and how to treat mild cases at home.
1. What Is Bacterial Gastroenteritis?
It’s an infection in the stomach or intestines. It happens when harmful bacteria enter your digestive system. This infection causes swelling (inflammation) and stomach upset.
“This is different from a viral stomach bug,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri. “It may need different care, including antibiotics in some cases.”
2. What Causes Bacterial Gastroenteritis?
The main causes are:
Eating spoiled or raw food (like undercooked meat or eggs)
Drinking unsafe water
Poor handwashing after using the bathroom or handling animals
Food made in unclean kitchens (especially during Houston's hot months)
3. Common Bacteria That Cause It
These are the usual suspects:
Salmonella (found in raw poultry and eggs)
E. coli (from undercooked beef or dirty produce)
Campylobacter (from raw milk and meat)
Shigella (spread by dirty hands or contaminated water)
Vibrio (from undercooked seafood or dirty water)
4. Symptoms to Watch For
You may have:
Diarrhea (watery or bloody)
Stomach pain or cramps
Fever
Nausea or vomiting
Feeling weak or dizzy
Dry mouth or dark urine (signs of dehydration)
“Dehydration happens fast in Houston’s heat,” warns Dr. Pothuri.
5. Viral vs. Bacterial Gastroenteritis: Key Differences
Feature
Viral
Bacterial
Onset Time
12–48 hours
6–72 hours
Diarrhea Type
Watery
Often bloody or severe
Fever
Mild
Usually high
Duration
1–3 days
3–7 days or more
Treatment
Fluids and rest
May need antibiotics
6. How to Treat It at Home
Mild cases get better on their own. Follow these steps:
Drink fluids often. Try water, clear soup, or electrolyte drinks.
Eat bland foods. Start with toast, rice, applesauce, or bananas (BRAT diet).
Rest. Stay home and take it easy.
Avoid greasy or spicy foods.
Take probiotics. Yogurt with live cultures or supplements can help your gut recover.
7. When to See a Doctor
Call your doctor if:
You see blood in your stool
You have a fever over 102 degree F
Diarrhea lasts more than 7 days
You can't keep fluids down
You feel dizzy, faint, or very tired
Severe cases may need IV fluids or antibiotics.
8. How to Prevent Bacterial Gastroenteritis
Use these tips, especially during Houston’s summer:
Wash hands with soap often (especially before eating or after using the bathroom)
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
