What can be mistaken for gastro?

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

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Overview

Gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as gastro, is quite prevalent in Australia and typically results in symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. However, various other health issues can produce similar symptoms and are often confused with gastroenteritis. Understanding what other factors may be causing your symptoms can help you determine when to manage care at home and when to consult a doctor.

If your symptoms are persistent, worsening, or you’re unsure whether you have gastro or another condition, a telehealth consultation can be a convenient way to speak with a telehealth doctor from home. If clinically appropriate, you can book a telehealth appointment with an AHPRA-registered practitioner for medical advice and guidance on whether you need further assessment.

What is gastro?

Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines, generally caused by an infection. It spreads easily, particularly in environments such as homes, schools, and childcare facilities.

Typical causes include:

• Viruses such as norovirus or rotavirus
• Bacterial infections
• Food poisoning

Common symptoms encompass:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever
• Dehydration

Most cases resolve within a few days. However, prolonged or severe symptoms may indicate another issue.

Conditions mistaken for gastro

Food poisoning

Food poisoning can closely resemble gastroenteritis, but typically manifests more rapidly after consuming contaminated food.

Distinct characteristics:

• Quick onset of symptoms
• Often, more intense abdominal cramps

Symptoms include:

• Sudden vomiting
• Watery or bloody diarrhoea
• Fever
• Severe abdominal discomfort

Appendicitis

Initially, appendicitis may feel similar to gastro but worsens over time and necessitates immediate medical attention.

Distinct characteristics:

• Pain begins near the navel and shifts to the lower right abdomen
• Pain intensifies rather than diminishes

Symptoms include:

• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rising abdominal pain

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

IBS leads to continuous digestive issues that might be confused with repeated episodes of gastroenteritis.

Distinct characteristics:

• Chronic condition
• Symptoms are often triggered by stress or specific foods.

Symptoms include:

• Bloating
• Abdominal discomfort
• Diarrhoea, constipation, or both

Lactose intolerance

Lactose intolerance is frequently misidentified as mild gastro, particularly when symptoms arise suddenly.

Distinct characteristics:

• Symptoms appear after dairy consumption

Symptoms include:

• Gas
• Bloating
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal cramps

Coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder activated by gluten and is often wrongly categorised as recurring gastroenteritis.

Distinct characteristics:

• Persistent digestive symptoms
• Improves only with a strict gluten-free diet

Symptoms include:

• Chronic diarrhoea
• Bloating
• Fatigue
• Nutrient deficiencies

Stomach flu vs influenza

Despite its name, the “stomach flu” is not similar to influenza.

Key distinctions:

• Influenza is largely a respiratory condition
• Gastro mainly impacts the digestive system

Flu symptoms may involve:

• Fever
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Mild nausea or vomiting

COVID-19 (gastrointestinal symptoms)

COVID-19 can sometimes manifest with digestive symptoms, especially in children.

Symptoms may encompass:

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Fever

Testing may be required if COVID-19 is suspected.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis can mimic severe gastroenteritis, but it is considered a medical emergency.

Distinct characteristics:

• Intense upper abdominal pain
• Pain may extend to the back

Symptoms include:

• Persistent vomiting
• Severe abdominal discomfort
• Fever
• Nausea

Gallstones

Gallstones can induce sudden abdominal pain and nausea, particularly after consuming fatty foods.

Symptoms include:

• Upper right abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Viral infections (not gastro)

Certain viral illnesses can cause vomiting without true gastroenteritis.

Examples include:

• Adenovirus
• RSV
• Hand, foot and mouth disease

Symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Poor appetite
• Intermittent vomiting

Symptom

The table below highlights key differences in symptoms, onset, and red flags for conditions often confused with gastro.

Condition	Key symptoms	Onset	Red flags
Gastro	Vomiting, diarrhoea	Sudden	Dehydration
Food poisoning	Severe cramps	Hours after food	Bloody stools
Appendicitis	Pain near the navel that shifts to the lower right abdomen	Gradual	Fever and pain
IBS	Bloating, bowel changes	Ongoing	None
Lactose intolerance	Gas, bloating	After dairy	None
COVID-19	Diarrhoea, fever	Varies	Breathing difficulties

When to see a GP

You should obtain medical advice from a doctor if you or your child experiences

• Persistent vomiting
• Blood present in vomit or stools
• Fever lasting beyond 48 hours
• Intense or worsening abdominal pain
• Symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness, a dry mouth, or reduced urine output
• Symptoms in infants, older adults, pregnant women, or individuals with chronic health conditions

If you or your child experience severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or persistent vomiting of blood, call 000 or visit the nearest Emergency Department (ED) immediately.

How Hola Health can help

Hola Health’s online doctors can help assess whether symptoms are likely due to gastro or another health issue.

They offer:

• Same day online GP consultations
• Guidance on hydration and home care
• Online prescriptions for nausea or symptom management, where clinically appropriate.
• Referrals for blood tests, stool analysis, or imaging
• Advice on when hospital care is necessary

Note: Some conditions mentioned, such as appendicitis or gallstones, require a physical examination for an accurate diagnosis. If a physical assessment is necessary, our online doctors will advise you to visit a doctor in person or attend an emergency department.

Conclusion

Although gastroenteritis is a frequent cause of vomiting and diarrhoea, numerous other conditions may present similarly. Issues ranging from food poisoning and intolerances to more serious conditions such as appendicitis or pancreatitis require attention to symptom patterns and warning signs. If symptoms are severe, ongoing, or worsening, or if you’re uncertain about the cause, consulting with a doctor can help ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.