glossary

gastroenteritis

Definition gastroenteritis

gastroenteritis

gastroenteritis n. inflammation of the stomach and intestine. It is usually due to acute infection by viruses or bacteria or to food-poisoning toxins and causes vomiting and diarrhoea. The illness usually lasts 3-5 days. Fluid loss is sometimes severe, especially in infants, and intravenous fluid replacement may be necessary.