Gastroenteritis, sometimes incorrectly called “stomach flu,” is the most common digestive disorder among children. Severe gastroenteritis causes dehydration and an imbalance of blood chemicals (electrolytes) due to the loss of body fluids in the vomit and stool.
Gastroenteritis is mostly caused by viruses such as Rotavirus. It can also result from bacteria and parasites. Symptoms of gastroenteritis are usually a combination of vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever and poor appetite.