Intestinal infections show clear symptoms in the stomach. Infections in the intestine affect gastrointestinal tract which inturn causes diarrhea. Sometimes, the infections also lead to inflammation in the stomach. Several types of bacteria and yeast are responsible for intestinal infections. The problem in the intestines is commonly called as gastroenteritis. Generally, doctors explain these types of infections as food poisoning or food borne illnesses.



The major reason for food poisoning is intake of contaminated food that contains toxic microorganisms. If not treated properly, the infection may be carried by the bloodstream causing malfunctioning of other organs. If the infection is very heavy in pregnant women, the fetus may also be affected.

Many people catch intestinal infections by eating contaminated food and drinking contaminated water. Raw or uncooked meat and unpasteurized dairy products can also cause such infections. If you touch contaminated areas and use the same hands without washing to eat food, you are likely to be infected. Developing countries are more prone to intestinal infections because of lack of awareness about these types of common infections.

There are bacteria in the intestines that actually help the digestive process. But toxic bacteria cause infections that have to be treated properly. Salmonella is a very common bacteria that causes intestinal infections. Serious illness such as typhoid is also caused by these bacteria. Typhoid symptoms are heavy fever, vomiting, and tiredness. This disease is caused by eating contaminated food. Shigellosis is another disease caused by shigella. This organism inflames small intestine linings. Many people recover from this illness even without antibiotics.

There are five main types of E.choli bacteria that cause intestinal infections. Several people all over the world suffer from diarrhea and other problems because of this type of bacteria. Use of antibiotics can greatly benefit the affected person. By eating undercooked meat such as beef, people easily catch infections caused by E.choli. Sometimes, rotten fruits and vegetables may also be the reason for causing intestinal infections.

Apart from common bacteria, there are several types of viruses that also cause intestinal infections. Some of these viral infections cause mild diarrhea and they cure on their own without the need for any medical attention. Hepatitis A is a serious viral infection which starts with infecting the victim's liver. This causes swelling of liver and lead to jaundice. Vaccination at early ages can prevent this disease completely.

Parasites that live within the human body cause various types of intestinal infections. These organisms live in your intestines and survive with the food you take. When they emit toxins, the intestines become affected and show symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and the like. Sometimes, severe intestinal infections lead to dehydration which results in loss of body fluids.

When infections are severe, that has to be treated properly. Otherwise, infection may spread to other organs causing fatal diseases. Except cases of severe infections, intestinal infections need no specific medication. People who are affected get well on their own. Intestinal infections can be prevented with proper vaccination and appropriate personal hygiene.