An Overview on Diagnosis and Management of Gastroenteritis in Primary Health Care Center: Literature Review

Background: Gastroenteritis is a condition characterized by acute bouts of watery diarrhea and vomiting. It is a self-limiting condition in most cases. However, some patients may require more aggressive therapy. The commonest etiology is rotavirus. However, other viruses, bacteria, and parasites are culprits. Objectives: We aimed to review the literature reviewing Gastroenteritis, along with the common etiologies, clinical features, diagnosis, and management in both the acute and definitive settings. Methodology: PubMed database was used for articles selection, from where papers were obtained and reviewed. Conclusion: The diagnosis of gastroenteritis can be made clinically in most cases. The majority of patients can be treated at home with fluid replacement and unrestricted diet. Further diagnostic testing should only be done in patients whose symptoms are not resolved by two weeks’ time or if other alarming symptoms are present. Assessment of dehydration is an essential step in the diagnosis and management. Treatment for severe cases includes IV hydration, antimicrobial therapy, and antiemetics.