Stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, is an infection caused by various viruses affecting the stomach and intestines. It's no secret that it can be a real nightmare. While it is usually not serious and resolves on its own within a few days, it can be debilitating in the short term and lead to severe dehydration if fluids are not replaced. That's why it's important to know the facts about this illness and how to prevent it before it strikes. No one wishes to spend a few days bedridden and dealing with frequent and awful trips to the bathroom. This article will look at the realities of stomach flu and how you can protect yourself from it. It is best to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or prolonged.
Causes of the Stomach Flu
There are a few causes of stomach flu, but the most common is norovirus. This virus is highly contagious and can be passed easily from person to person. You typically contract the virus from tainted food or drink. However, it can also spread among those who share food or are close to one another. You can contract the virus by contacting your mouth and then a norovirus-contaminated surface. Other causes of stomach flu include:
- Infections: There are a group of viruses that can cause a wide range of illnesses in humans, including respiratory infections, eye infections, and gastroenteritis.
- Astroviruses: These are small, non-enveloped RNA viruses that can cause acute diarrheal illness in humans and animals. Astrovirus infection often causes symptoms similar to other viral infections, including diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and low-grade fever. Astrovirus infection is primarily spread through contact with infected feces and can be transmitted through contaminated food and water or close contact with infected individuals.
These viruses are typically less severe than norovirus and don't last as long. However, they can still make you feel pretty awful while you have them.
Signs and Symptoms of the Stomach Flu
If you think you may have the stomach flu, also called viral gastroenteritis, watch for these signs and symptoms:
- Watery, sometimes bloody diarrhea leads to excessive loss of fluids, dry mouth, and dry skin.
- Abdominal pain and cramping.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Fever: an increase in body temperature.
- Body aches.
- Headache.
- Chills.
- Loss of appetite.
Symptoms usually appear within 1-3 days after exposure to the virus and can last for 1-10 days. In some cases, the symptoms may be mild, while in others, they may be severe. While most people recover without complications, the stomach flu can be dangerous for some, particularly young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Treatment
While there is no cure for the stomach flu, there are ways to treat the symptoms and help your body recover.
- Stay hydrated: drink plenty of water, clear broths, frozen water or ice pops, clear soda, and electrolyte beverages for hydration. Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, and large amounts of sugar.
- Eat when you're able: Start with clear liquids and then progress to bland, non-fatty foods. Avoid foods that may be irritating, such as spicy or fried foods.
- Rest: get plenty of rest to help your body fight off the infection
- Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate fever, headache, and muscle aches.
- Medication can help slow down diarrhea, but it should be used cautiously, especially in children and older adults. It’s often important for the diarrhea to run its course.
- Avoid foods that may be difficult to digest: such as dairy products, high-fiber foods, and fatty foods.
- Avoid contact with others to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
It is important to note that antibiotics will not work against viral infections like stomach flu. If your symptoms become severe or you cannot drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration, it is important to seek medical attention. Taking necessary precautions will ensure you don't get infected, such as frequent hand-washing and avoiding contact with people carrying the virus.