Dictionary > Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis

Definition
noun
An inflammation of the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly of the stomach and the colon
Supplement
Gastroenteritis is an acute inflammation of the lining of the stomach and the large intestine (colon). It is marked by the following symptoms: anorexia, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and weakness, which has various causes, including food poisoning due to infection with organisms such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella species, consumption of irritating food or drink or psychological factors such as anger, stress and fear. It lasts less than two weeks in most cases.
Pathogens causing gastroenteritis include viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is colloquially called stomach flu. It is contracted by eating or drinking contaminated food or water or by ingesting or putting into the mouth objects (e.g. utensils) that are contaminated. Common viruses that cause gastroenteritis are novoviruses, rotaviruses, adenoviruses, astroviruses, etc. Gastroenteritis is also associated with the presence of certain protozoans, i.e. most commonly Giargia lamblia.
Non-infectious factors causing gastroenteritis include taking certain medications (e.g. NSAIDs), lactose intolerance, and certain diseases such as Crohn’s disease.
Word origin: Greek gastēr, gastros (“belly, paunch”) + Latin enteron (“intestine”) + –itis
Synonym(s):

  • enterogastritis
  • infectious diarrhea
  • stomach flu

See also:

  • dysentery


  • You will also like...

    Control of body movement
    Control of Body Movement

    Some of the body movements can be controlled at will, others cannot. The body has a motor program, which is the pattern ..

    Endemic Flora of New Zealand
    New Zealand’s Unique Flora

    If New Zealand has lots of unique animals, it's also got a whole lot of unique plants. Find out more about some of them,..

    Lentic community
    Freshwater Communities & Lentic Waters

    Lentic or still water communities can vary greatly in appearance -- from a small temporary puddle to a large lake. The s..

    Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes
    Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes

    Learn about the general structure of a eukaryotic gene, the transcription factors, and post-transcriptional regulation....

    Genetics – Lesson Outline & Worksheets
    Genetics – Lesson Outline & Worksheets

      Topics Modules Quizzes/Worksheets Description Introduction to Genetics Genetics – Definition: Heredity and ..

    Plant Water Regulation
    Plant Water Regulation

    Plants need to regulate water in order to stay upright and structurally stable. Find out the different evolutionary adap..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics