Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and the intestines. More commonly, gastroenteritis is called the stomach flu.

The symptoms of gastroenteritis always include diarrhea. Fever, and vomiting can also be present. Typically the symptoms associated with a bout of gastroenteritis typically last only several days and are self-limiting. But sometimes the malady can be more extended.

The diarrhea in gastroenteritis is very loose, even watery. Also, bowel movements are frequent, occurring even several times an hour as the body attempts to expel the offending microorganism. This large loss of fluid creates the potential for dehydration. Usually dehydration is not an issue in an adult, unless the person is incapable of caring for themselves and has no other caregiver. Dehydration is an important issue in children. If a child is hospitalized because of diarrhea, it is usually because of complications arising from dehydration, rather than from the actual...