Definition of Enteritis
Enteritis is inflammation of the small intestine.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Enteritis is usually caused by eating or drinking substances that are contaminated with bacteria or viruses. The germs settle in the small intestine and cause inflammation and swelling, which may lead to , cramping, , , and .
Symptoms
The symptoms may begin hours to days after you become infected. Symptoms may include:
Signs and tests
A stool culture may be done to determine the specific type of infection, however, this test may not always identify the bacteria causing the illness.
Treatment
Mild cases usually need no treatment.
Expectations (prognosis)
Symptoms usually go away without treatment in a few days.
Review
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; George F Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 4/12/2010
