Gastroenteritis is a condition resulting from inflammation in the stomach and intestines. Elderly individuals—specifically nursing home residents—are at high risk for developing this condition due to their weaker immune systems and poor hygiene. Unfortunately, nursing home residents who contract gastroenteritis are more likely to die from the condition than senior citizens who don’t live in long-term care facilities.
If you suspect your loved one’s case of gastroenteritis is a result of neglect or abuse, it’s essential to take action. Working with a skilled nursing home abuse lawyer is the best way to ensure your elderly family members are protected against neglectful behaviors in long-term care facilities. Here is some important information to know about gastroenteritis in New York Nursing Homes.
What Is Gastroenteritis?
Individuals over the age of 60 have a higher risk of contracting gastroenteritis. However, while this condition can affect all older people, it is more likely to infect those living in nursing home facilities. This is because nursing home residents live in close quarters and have higher exposure to coming in contact with a person infected with the condition. Most commonly, gastroenteritis is caused by poor hygiene or food poisoning.
Symptoms Associated with Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis can cause a variety of symptoms. However, some of the most common symptoms associated with this condition include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Reduced appetite
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue and body aches
If caught and treated in its early stages, gastroenteritis can last for up to three days. However, when the condition is contracted in elderly individuals it can last longer. If the illness does not clear the body within a reasonable time frame, it can have long-term effects. When left unattended, gastroenteritis can reduce the good bacteria in the gut and create imbalances in the gut. Additionally, it can cause irritable bowel syndrome, which can take years to resolve.
For elderly individuals, one of the most serious side effects is dehydration. If you suspect your loved one is suffering from gastroenteritis, it’s essential to take action.
How Gastroenteritis Spreads in Nursing Home Facilities
Nursing home facilities can become prime breeding grounds for gastroenteritis. Close living arrangements coupled with constant contact with visitors and centralized food preparation make nursing homes provide an ideal environment for gastroenteritis to spread. It is essential for nursing home residents infected with gastroenteritis to receive prompt medical care and attention. Since elderly individuals are at high risk for experiencing prolonged, severe symptoms, it is important to catch and treat symptoms early.
Contact an Expert Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in New York City
If your loved one suffered a severe case of gastroenteritis because of neglect or abuse in their nursing home facility, it’s important to contact the authorities and seek legal representation. Unfortunately, many nursing homes are plagued by significant understaffing, causing industry-wide problems of neglect and abuse. At Dalli & Marino, our New York nursing home abuse lawyers are dedicated to fighting the injustices in the nursing home system.
Our seasoned New York trial attorneys have been aggressively advocating for victims of nursing home abuse since 1996. We are committed to cultivating strong relationships with our clients through trusted, reliable communication. Our team of skilled attorneys approaches each case on an individual basis and is dedicated to helping you recover the money you deserve to compensate for your experience. Give us a call at (888) 465-8790 or complete our contact form today.
