Enteritis is primarily caused by consuming food or drinks contaminated with bacteria or viruses. These harmful microorganisms then inflame the small intestine, resulting in enteritis.
Common Causes of Enteritis
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Infection | The primary cause, involving bacteria and viruses entering the body via contaminated food or drink. |
| Autoimmune | Certain autoimmune conditions, such as Crohn's disease, can also lead to enteritis. |
How Infections Lead to Enteritis:
- Ingestion: Harmful germs, like bacteria or viruses, are ingested through contaminated sources.
- Intestinal Colonization: These germs then settle in the small intestine.
- Inflammation: The presence of these germs causes inflammation and swelling of the intestinal lining, leading to the symptoms of enteritis.
Autoimmune Conditions:
- Conditions like Crohn's disease can cause the immune system to attack the digestive tract, leading to inflammation.
It's important to note that identifying the specific cause of enteritis helps in determining the appropriate treatment plan.
