An inflammatory condition of the stomach and intestines that accompanies numerous disorders of the gastrointestinal system affecting people of all ages.

The condition has many possible causes related to foreign agents that enter the gastrointestinal tract. Bacteria (bacterial gastroenteritis), viruses (viral gastroenteritis), or parasites which cause this condition to get into the body through the mouth. Infectious agents that cause this disease may be found in soil, animals, and humans, and are transmitted in the following ways: person-to-person, handling pets and other animals, contact with feces of an infected person, or indirectly by touching contaminated surfaces. Transmission may also occur by eating contaminated food, drinking contaminated water, or airborne method through vomiting, coughing and sneezing.

Additional possible causes include toxins (ingestion of plants); drug reactions (antibiotics); enzyme deficiencies and food allergens.

Manifestations are variable and dependent on the causative agent and the level of the gastrointestinal tract involved. After ingestion of foreign agents, it usually takes several days for symptoms to appear. Diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, fever, and headache are possible signs and symptoms. Additional symptoms that may be associated with viral gastroenteritis include: weight loss; vomiting blood; excessive sweating; clammy skin; muscle pain; joint stiffness; incontinence; chills and poor appetite.

Stool cultures or blood cultures identifies the causative bacteria or parasites. Examination of white blood cells on fecal smear, and evaluation of food for the presence of toxins and bacteria are diagnostic measures.

The implementation of treatment is usually based on the symptoms presented, and consists of bed rest, nutritional support, and increased fluid intake. Oral replacement of fluids to replenish fluids and electrolytes (salt and minerals) lost is commonly instituted when any degree of dehydration occurs. Intravenous (IV) fluids may be given in severe cases or if the patient is unable to take oral fluids. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required. Antibiotic or antimicrobial therapy is usually not indicated unless systemic involvement is present. Bismuth-containing compounds, such as Pepto-Bismol and antiemetics, such as prochlorperazine (Chlorpazine) or trimethobenzamide (Arrestin) may be included in the treatment program.

With most conditions, symptoms improve with fluid and electrolyte replacement within a week. Complications may include systemic infection, severe dehydration and anemia. The condition can be life-threatening in elderly and debilitated patients. There are rare cases of patients having renal failure and death.

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