What does Gastroenteritis primarily cause?

Gastroenteritis primarily causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea due to inflammation of the stomach and intestines. This condition can be triggered by viral or bacterial infections, or sometimes by certain medications and toxins. The inflammation leads to decreased absorption of nutrients and increased fluid loss through vomit and loose stools, which are hallmark symptoms of gastroenteritis.

While fatigue and fever can occur as secondary symptoms due to dehydration and the body's immune response to infection, they are not the primary effects of gastroenteritis. Similarly, pain in the chest and shortness of breath are not typically associated with gastroenteritis, as these symptoms more often relate to respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. In contrast, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea directly stem from the digestive tract's response to infection or irritation.