What Causes Stomach Infections? Common Triggers and Risk Factors

What Causes Stomach Infections? Common Triggers and Risk Factors

Stomach infections are a common digestive issue that can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps. These infections are typically caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which can enter the digestive system through contaminated food, water, or poor hygiene. While mild stomach infections can be treated at home, severe cases may require medical attention.

Having the best medical insurance in India ensures that individuals can access quality healthcare without financial burdens. Additionally, the best mediclaim policy for family helps cover treatment costs in case multiple family members are affected by infections.

Common Causes of Stomach Infections

Let’s explore the common causes of stomach infections in order to help you stay protected.

1. Viral Infections

Viruses are one of the leading causes of stomach infections, also known as viral gastroenteritis or the "stomach flu."

Norovirus: The most common cause of foodborne stomach infections, often spreading through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

Rotavirus: Primarily affects infants and young children, causing severe diarrhoea and dehydration.

Adenovirus and Astrovirus: Can also cause stomach infections, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals.

2. Bacterial Infections

Certain bacteria can cause stomach infections, often resulting from contaminated food or improper hygiene.

Salmonella: Found in raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, and unpasteurised dairy products.

Escherichia coli (E. coli): Some strains cause severe diarrhoea and are often linked to contaminated vegetables, meat, and water.

Campylobacter: A common cause of bacterial stomach infections, found in raw or undercooked poultry and unpasteurised milk.

Shigella: Causes dysentery and spreads through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected individuals.

Clostridium difficile (C. diff): Often affects individuals who have taken antibiotics, leading to severe diarrhoea and inflammation of the colon.

3. Parasitic Infections

Parasites are another cause of stomach infections and are usually transmitted through contaminated food, water, or poor sanitation.

Giardia: A parasite that spreads through contaminated drinking water and causes persistent diarrhoea.

Cryptosporidium: Common in unclean water sources and swimming pools, leading to gastrointestinal distress.

Entamoeba histolytica: Causes amoebic dysentery and spreads through contaminated food and water.

4. Contaminated Food and Water

One of the most significant causes of stomach infections is the consumption of food or water that contains harmful pathogens.

Eating food that has been left unrefrigerated for long periods can promote bacterial growth.

Drinking unfiltered or untreated water increases the risk of infections.

Cross-contamination of food, such as using the same cutting board for raw meat and vegetables, can spread bacteria.

5. Poor Hygiene Practices

Lack of proper hygiene can increase the risk of stomach infections. Common risk factors include:

Not washing hands before eating or after using the restroom.

Eating food prepared in unhygienic conditions.

Coming into contact with infected individuals without taking precautions.

Risk Factors for Stomach Infections

Certain individuals are more susceptible to stomach infections due to weakened immune systems or lifestyle factors.

1. Children and Infants

Young children have weaker immune systems and are more likely to get viral or bacterial stomach infections due to exposure at schools, playgrounds, and daycare centres.

2. Elderly Individuals

Older adults have a weaker immune response, making them more vulnerable to infections and complications such as dehydration.

3. Individuals with Weakened Immunity

People with conditions such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, cancer, or autoimmune disorders are at higher risk of severe stomach infections.

4. Frequent Travellers

Travelling to regions with poor sanitation and contaminated water increases the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea and parasitic infections.

5. People on Certain Medications

Individuals taking antibiotics, acid-reducing medications, or immunosuppressants may have a higher risk of stomach infections. Antibiotics can disrupt the natural gut flora, making the digestive system more vulnerable to harmful bacteria.

How to Cure a Stomach Infection at Home?

Mild cases of stomach infections can be managed at home with proper care and hydration.

1. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a major concern during stomach infections due to frequent diarrhoea and vomiting. To replenish lost fluids, drink:

Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to restore electrolyte balance.

Coconut water to provide natural hydration.

Herbal teas like ginger or peppermint to soothe the stomach.

2. Follow a Bland Diet

Eating easily digestible foods can help prevent irritation in the stomach. Some suitable options include:

Boiled rice or khichdi

Toast or plain crackers

Mashed bananas

Applesauce

Boiled potatoes

Avoid spicy, oily, or dairy-based foods, as they can worsen symptoms.

3. Take Probiotics

Probiotics, found in yoghurt and fermented foods, help restore healthy gut bacteria and aid in digestion.

4. Use Natural Remedies

Ginger: Helps reduce nausea and improve digestion.

Turmeric: Has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the stomach.

Cumin (jeera) water: Aids digestion and reduces bloating.

5. Get Plenty of Rest

Allowing the body to recover is essential. Avoid strenuous activities and stress, which can weaken immunity.

When to Seek Medical Help?

While most stomach infections resolve within a few days, medical attention is necessary if you experience:

Severe dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, reduced urination).

High fever (above 102°F or 39°C).

Blood in stool or vomit.

Severe abdominal pain or prolonged diarrhoea lasting more than three days.

For severe stomach infections that require hospitalisation or medical treatment, having the best medical insurance in India can help cover the costs of doctor consultations, diagnostic tests, and hospital stays. The best mediclaim policy for family ensures that all family members receive timely and quality care without financial stress.

How to Cure Stomach Infection at Home

Preventing stomach infections involves good hygiene practices, safe food handling, and maintaining a strong immune system. Following is how to cure stomach infection at home:

Wash hands thoroughly before eating and after using the restroom.

Drink only filtered or boiled water to avoid contamination.

Ensure food is cooked properly and stored at safe temperatures.

Avoid street food or raw seafood in areas with poor sanitation.

Take probiotics regularly to maintain gut health.

Conclusion

Stomach infections are a common but preventable health issue caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, and poor hygiene. While mild infections can be managed at home with hydration and a proper diet, severe cases may require medical intervention.

To ensure financial security during unexpected medical emergencies, having the best medical insurance in India or the best mediclaim policy for family can provide access to timely healthcare. Niva Bupa Health Insurance offers comprehensive coverage for hospitalisation, diagnostic tests, and doctor consultations, ensuring that individuals and families receive the best medical care without financial worries.

By maintaining good hygiene, eating safe food, and being proactive about healthcare, you can significantly reduce the risk of stomach infections and stay healthy.