GASTROENTERITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Gastroenteritis is a medical term referring to the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is commonly known as the stomach flu or a gastrointestinal infection. This condition usually occurs when a person comes into contact with and ingests contaminated food or water or comes in contact with someone who is already infected.
Symptoms of gastroenteritis typically include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and in some cases, a low-grade fever. These symptoms typically last for a few days to a week, and in most cases, the illness resolves on its own without requiring medical intervention. However, in severe cases or for individuals with weakened immune systems, medical treatment may be necessary.
The inflammation in gastroenteritis is usually caused by viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus, or occasionally bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli. These viruses or bacteria disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
Treatment for gastroenteritis typically involves rest, maintaining hydration by drinking fluids and, in some cases, over-the-counter medications to control symptoms such as diarrhea or antiemetics to alleviate vomiting. It is also crucial to practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, to prevent the spread of the infection to others.
Overall, gastroenteritis is a common and usually self-limiting condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach and intestines, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
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Inflammation of the mucous membrane of both stomach and intestine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymology of GASTROENTERITIS
The word "gastroenteritis" has a Greek and Latin etymology. It is derived from the Greek words "gaster" meaning "stomach" and "enteron" meaning "intestine", combined with the Latin suffix "-itis" which denotes inflammation. Therefore, "gastroenteritis" literally means inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
Similar spelling words for GASTROENTERITIS
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