Condition: Noninfectious Gastroenteritis

Noninfectious gastroenteritis is a term used to describe the inflammation and irritation of the lining of the intestines that is not caused by an infectious substance. Noninfectious gastroenteritis is not contagious, and is usually caused by eating shellfish or food contaminated with some sort of bacteria. Noninfectious gastroenteritis can also be caused by side effects of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other medications; AIDS; and some types of cancer. Digestive conditions, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, may also cause noninfectious gastroenteritis. Symptoms of gastroenteritis include vomiting and nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping and pain. Noninfectious gastroenteritis can often cause dehydration from loss of fluids.