GASTROENTERITIS:
DEFINITION: Gastroenteritis is an irritation of the stomach
and intestinal tract.  It's usually caused by a virus, but
can also be caused by bacteria, toxins that cause food
poisoning, or excessive alcohol intake.  SYMPTOMS: Symptoms
may include fever, painful abdominal cramps, nausea,
vomiting, and diarrhea.  THERAPY: Consume nothing by mouth
for 4 hours.  Then start small amounts (2-6 oz) of clear
liquids (soft drinks, herb teas, broth, etc).  Take fluids
frequently even if you are vomiting, to prevent
dehydration.  When liquids are being consumed successfully,
advance to small amounts of bland food (mashed potato,
toast) for 24 hours.  Gastroenteritis rarely requires
medication.  It goes away by itself.  IF PROBLEMS: If
symptoms are severe, talk to the doctor.  Call the
physician if blood appears in your vomitus or stool, if
vomiting lasts longer than 24 hours, if the abdominal pain
worsens or becomes localized to one area, if you develop
high fever, or if you become lightheaded and weak.