What is Gastroenteritis and its Causes?

What is meant by Gastroenteritis?

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach as well as intestines. Gastro means stomach and enteron means intestine, itis means inflammation. It can occur in acute gastroenteritis form or toxic gastroenteritis forms.

Why do one get Gastroenteritis and what are the causes of it?

Salmonella Infection (Photo credit: PNNL – Pacific Northwest National Laboratory)

Gastroenteritis may be caused as a result of

• Food poisoning
• Intake of excessive alcohol
• Viral infections
• Bacterial infections
• Food allergies

What are the symptoms of Gastroenteritis:

Gastroenteritis symptoms are

• Vomitting
• Diarrhoea
• Fever for longer duration

What is the treatment for gastroenteritis: Gastroenteritis diet:

Drugs (Photo credit: jepoirrier)

When the nausea and vomitings are there, no food or fluid should be given. After the ceasing of the symptoms, a bland, fluid food consisting of strained broth, thin cereals, boiled eggs and tea are given. When the symptoms do not cease, a physician should be consulted.