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Q.

What causes gastroenteritis?

Related Topics: Gastroenteritis
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A.

Usually, gastroenteritis is caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, which can spread quickly through contaminated food or water.


  • Bacteria that cause gastroenteritis include Escherichia coli, salmonella, Campylobacter, and Shigella. These bacteria are usually found in food, but can be spread person to person, says David Burkhart, MD, a staff physician at the Indiana University Health Center in Bloomington.

  • Viruses that trigger gastroenteritis include adenoviruses, rotaviruses, calciviruses, astroviruses, and norovirus. Certain viruses are found in specific places, Burkhart says. For instance, norovirus often shows up on college campuses, lingering on doorknobs and shared keyboards, spreading the gastroenteritis among students.

  • Parasites and protozoans that commonly lead to gastroenteritis include Giardia and cryptosporidium. The parasite Giardia lives in the intestines of infected people or animals, and often spreads when someone swallows polluted water.

  • Chemical toxins in seafood can also cause gastroenteritis, so can exposure to heavy metals, such as lead in drinking water.

  • Other causes of non-contagious gastroenteritis include food allergies, caffeine, or medications such as antibiotics, steroids, aspirin, and laxatives.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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