Tuesday, March 19, 2024

How To Treat Stomach Flu

Tips & Tricks For Preventing The Stomach Flu

How to Treat Stomach Flu/ Stomach Ache

Above mentioned home remedies are readily available at home and effectively manage stomach flu symptoms. Please keep in mind:

1. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration due to stomach flu. One may have plain water or a sports drink. In addition, infants should be given Oral Rehydration Solution to restore the loss of electrolytes.

2. Avoid caffeinated drinks like strong coffee, black tea, soft drinks, alcohol, and chocolate drinks as they could cause more stomach upset.

3. Avoid spicy and fatty foods as they can enhance the symptoms of gastroenteritis.

4. Avoid fibrous foods such as whole grains and vegetable soup during stomach flu as they can be hard on digestion.

5. Take plenty of rest and reduce your activities during stomach virus as your body needs the energy to fight against infection.

Prevention is always better than cure. So make a habit of washing your hands before and after eating and at regular intervals clean vegetables and fruits before consuming.

Stomach Flu And Dehydration

How can I prevent dehydration?If your baby or child has had several bouts of vomiting or diarrhea, he or she will need to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.

If you are breastfeeding, continue to give your baby breastmilk. Breastmilk has fluids and electrolytes needed to prevent dehydration. Your doctor may also want you to give your baby an oral rehydration solution .

If you feed your baby formula, try switching to one that is lactose free while your baby is sick. Lactose can make diarrhea worse. Your doctor may also suggest switching from formula to an ORS for 12 to 24 hours, and then switching back.

For toddlers and young children, use an ORS, which contains the right mix of salt, sugar, potassium and other nutrients to help replace lost body fluids. Children older than 1 year may also have clear soups, clear sodas or juice mixed with water to help prevent dehydration. You should avoid giving your child plain water and dark sodas. Water alone does not contain enough salt and nutrients to help with dehydration. Dark sodas are typically very high in sugar and can irritate your childs stomach.

Signs of dehydration

Telling The Difference Between Stomach Flu And Covid

Don’t know how to distinguish between COVID-19 and the stomach flu? We rounded up some clues that might help you figure out what you’re dealing with.

COVID-19 often causes more extensive symptoms. In general, COVID-19 attacks more bodily systems than a typical pathogen that causes the stomach flu, says Dr. Maynard. “While there can be a few similarities between the symptoms of COVID-19 and the stomach flu, the symptoms of COVID-19 are generally more extensive,” he says. In kids, COVID may lead to flu-like symptoms such as fatigue and joint pain, along with respiratory and GI issues, Dr. Maynard explains. On the other hand, kids with the stomach flu usually only experience GI symptoms

The stomach flu may create food aversions or loss of appetite, while COVID-19 can alter taste. With COVID-19, “your child’s appetite may stay the same however, they might report not tasting their food or milk or juice, reporting their food or drink ‘tastes funny,’ or stating ‘I don’t like this drink,'” says Bayo Curry-Winchell, M.D., Regional Clinical Director of Carbon Health and Urgent Care Medical Director of Saint Mary’s Hospital.

The stomach flu rarely presents with respiratory symptoms. If your child is vomiting or having diarrhea, but is also congested or coughing, COVID-19 is a more likely cause, says Dr. O’Shea.

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Causes And Symptoms Of The Stomach Flu

The norovirus and rotavirus cause most of the stomach flu cases. The norovirus, also known as the Norwalk virus, can infect anyone, although it more commonly infects adults. Globally, at least 1 out of every 5 cases of gastroenteritis is due to the norovirus. While a vaccine for the rotavirus is available, vaccines for the norovirus are still in development.

Infections in younger children, especially infants, are often caused by the rotavirus. Because of the risk of dehydration leading to more severe complications, it is important to recognise and treat symptoms early.

For adults, watch out for symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, fever, headache, and body aches. These symptoms usually develop 12 to 48 hours after an individual has been exposed to the norovirus.

Interestingly, medical observations show that not all individuals infected by the norovirus exhibit stomach flu symptoms. In other words, some individuals may get sick from the infection, whereas others may not. Some researchers think that genetic differences could be a factor.

How To Get Rid Of The Stomach Flu: 7 Home Remedies

How to Get Rid of Stomach Flu Naturally at Home?

By Annie Price, CHHC

Youre vomiting. You cant stop going to the bathroom. Youre exhausted and all this terribleness just seems to have come out of nowhere. Could it be the stomach flu? If it is, you probably want to know how to get rid of the stomach flu fast!

If you have the stomach flu, it likely may have been caused by norovirus, which is especially known for infecting people in the colder months of the year. This winter vomiting bug, or stomach flu, is known by doctors for being a family affair. In other words, if one person in the family gets it, most likely every family member in the household will get it because its that contagious!

How do you get rid of the stomach flu? Thankfully, many people with the stomach flu feel better within 24 hours. And luckily there are a lot of great natural ways to boost your recovery from a nasty case of stomach flu.

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What Not To Eat

Generally, avoid dairy, fibrous foods, and anything fatty or spicy.

  • Dairy: Not everyone has a problem with milk when they have the stomach flu, but it could be hard to digest and can aggravate gas and diarrhea.
  • Fiber: You dont need the extra fiber if your bowels are loose.
  • Grease: Avoid greasy and salty foods like bacon.
  • Spices: Stay away from tomato-based dishes, curries, and chili sauces.

Acupressure has been shown to be effective in treating some types of nausea. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center suggests finding pressure point P-6 by measuring the width of three fingers down from the bottom of your palm.

Press below that width with your thumb and youll feel a sensitive spot between two tendons. Gently massage with your thumb for two or three minutes.

Sea-Bands are a product worn on the wrists. These can be useful in treating nausea if the P-6 acupressure point gives you relief.

Peppermint Is Also An Excellent Remedy For Stomach Flu

As a carminative herb, peppermint will help you get rid of gas, eliminate bloating, and make stomach cramps go away. Add a teaspoon of dried leaves to a cup of boiling water, then steep for ten minutes. Strain it, then drink this peppermint tea four or five times a day, between meals, for two to three days.

Also Check: What Helps Stomach Pain Go Away

Home Remedies: How To Treat Stomach Flu

Before we get to the remedy, heres the reality: Theres no such thing as “stomach flu.”

“‘Stomach flu is a misnomer,” says Dr. Cindy Kermott, a Mayo Clinic preventive medicine physician. “It is just a common term for a viral gastroenteritis. And everyone has probably had it when you have nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.”

Dr. Kermott says flu settles in your chest not your stomach.

“It has to do with the lungs,” explains Dr. Kermott. “You get the dry cough, the fevers, the myalgias, where you feel like a train has hit you. That is influenza.”

Journalists: Broadcast-quality video is in the downloads.

So how do you treat what weve been calling “stomach flu?”

“For the first few hours, you want to avoid anything by mouth,” advises Dr. Kermott. “You just want to rest and have your stomach settle a little bit.”

After that, Dr. Kermott says its vital you keep your body hydrated. Sip on a clear fluid. Water is best, but clear sodas, broths, or weak teas are OK, too. If you cant tolerate liquids, try chewing on ice chips.

“Its important to maintain your hydration,” stresses Dr. Kermott.

When your stomach has fully settled, try eating small amounts of easily digestible foods like soda crackers, unbuttered toast, gelatin or a banana. Avoid fatty and spicy foods until youre fully recovered.

Finally, Dr. Kermott says to keep listening to your body.

“Symptoms exist because its telling your body what to do,” she says. “Its telling you to slow down.”

What Is The Difference Between Stomach Flu Vs Flu Virus

How to Prevent Stomach Flu

Home> Blog> What is the difference between Stomach Flu Vs Flu Virus?

Here at FluCamp we work hard to develop treatments against flu. But did you know there are different kinds of flu that circulate within our society?

Today we are going to explore one of those different kinds of flu. Gastroenteritis, the winter vomiting bug, or stomach flu is going to be the focus of this months blog.

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How Is Stomach Flu Diagnosed

Healthcare providers often can diagnose stomach flu from your symptoms. But your provider may want to rule out other illnesses with some tests:

  • Stool samples: Tests look for bacteria, viruses or parasites in your stool
  • Sigmoidoscopy: A doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera from the anus into the lower large intestine to look for signs of inflammatory bowel disease. The sigmoidoscopy is a 15-minute procedure that doesnt usually require sedation.

How To Treat Stomach Flu In Toddlers

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the intestines, also called Stomach flu. Gastroenteritis is often caused because of viral infection. In general, stomach flu is an infection of the stomach or intestines.

Stomach flu is very common in toddlers.

The symptoms of stomach flu in kids are diarrhea and vomiting, and your child may feel feverish at some point. One day you may notice vomiting, diarrhea, no signs of fever, and the other day fever at about 99 degrees or more.

Always call your doctor if your child starts vomiting all of a sudden, or having diarrhea and temperature over 100.4 degrees.

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How Is Gastroenteritis Treated

There is no specific treatment for gastroenteritis, and most kids can be treated at home. Keep your child hydrated by offering plenty of liquids. Kids with more severe dehydration may need treatment in the ER or hospital.

Mild dehydration is treated with oral rehydration. This usually includes giving oral rehydration solution . It has the right amounts of water, sugar, and salt to help with dehydration. You can buy it without a prescription at drugstores or supermarkets. If you cant get oral rehydration solution, talk to your doctor.

If your child has mild dehydration and your doctor says its OK to start treatment at home:

  • Give your child an oral electrolyte solution as often as possible. If your child throws up, start with small sips, about 1 or 2 teaspoons every few minutes.
  • Babies can continue to breastfeed or take formula as long as they are not throwing up repeatedly.
  • Don’t give babies plain water instead of oral rehydration solution. It doesn’t have the right nutrients for babies with dehydration.
  • Older children can have frozen electrolyte popsicles.
  • Do not give your child full-strength juice , soda, or sports drinks. These have a lot of sugar, which can make diarrhea worse.

When your child stops vomiting, you can offer small amounts of solid foods, such as toast, crackers, rice, or mashed potatoes. Yogurt, fruits, vegetables, and lean meat, like chicken, are also OK.

Don’t give medicines for diarrhea or vomiting unless your doctor tells you to.

What Causes A Stomach Virus

Home remedies for stomach flu

Several things can cause a stomach virus:

  • Norovirus: This is the main cause. This represents a family of viruses.
  • Rotavirus: This is a viral infection. This is common in babies and young kids.

Viral stomach infections are contagious. It is easy to get and give a stomach virus. It is spread by contact with an infected person, surface, or object. Stomach viruses are likely to spread at places with a lot of people. This includes schools, daycares, nursing homes, airplanes, cruise ships, and hospitals. Stomach viruses are common in cold weather months.

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How To Identify Symptoms Of The Stomach Flu And How To Treat It

No one likes to be stuck at home, sick in bed. However, thousands of Canadians fall ill and catch the cold, flu and many other seasonal ailments. One of the most uncomfortable is the stomach flu. In fact, the stomach flu can be more serious than most people realize. It is also known as gastroenteritis and can result in severe dehydration, hospitalization and even death.

What Are The Common Side Effects Of Stomach Flu Medicine

Stomach flu medications will vary in their side effects based on the type of drug, the dose, and the patients age. This is not a complete list of side effects, so consult with a health care provider about possible drug interactions or side effects.

Oral rehydration solutions have a long track record of safety. Rare side effects include nausea and diarrhea. It is possible, however, to overdo it. Taking too many electrolytes can throw the bodys balance of electrolytes off-kilter, causing potentially serious medical problems.

Antiemetics work by affecting a part of the brain involved with nausea and vomiting, so drowsiness, lightheadedness, sleepiness, restlessness, and agitation are the most common side effects. Dry mouth is a common complaint. The most serious side effect involves a hazardous change in the way the heart beats called QT prolongation. The risk is greatest when these drugs are taken over a long period.

The most commonly experienced side effect of antidiarrheal agents is constipation. Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting are also possible.

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How Long Does Stomach Flu Last

The stomach flu usually lasts less than a week. Be sure to stay home if you have symptoms, and continue to practice good handwashing afterward. The virus can still be in your stool for up to two weeks after youve stopped having symptoms, so be extra careful with your bathroom habits. Always wash your hands after having a bowel movement, and wash any soiled fabrics in hot soapy water.

Pepto Diarrhea Can Treat Diarrhea At The Source

How to Treat Stomach Flu | Best Remedies for Stomach Flu

The stomach bug will passâbut thereâs no need to suffer through it or simply control the symptoms. Aside from staying hydrated, the best thing you can do for the stomach bug is treat the diarrhea symptoms. Pepto Diarrheahas you covered. Its dual action coats your stomach and kills the common bacterial causes of diarrhea. You can count on fast, calming, and effective diarrhearelief with Pepto Diarrhea. Even better? In addition to the traditional liquid form, Pepto Diarrhea also comes in liquicaps and caplets for on-the-go-relief. As always checking with your healthcare provider is a great step to confirm whatâs causing your symptoms in the first place.

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What Causes A Stomach Bug

A stomach bug is usually caused by viruses, including:

Viral gastroenteritis peaks in the winter and spring when these viruses are most actively spreading in the community.

The viruses that cause stomach bugs are spread from person to person by:

  • Touching an infected person
  • Touching a surface with the virus on it
  • Consuming foods or drinks with the virus in them

What You Need To Know About The Stomach Flu

The stomach flu is very different from the flu, which is a respiratory infection that is caused by the influenza virus. The stomach flu is actually caused by a norovirus, and it is commonly associated with diarrhea, vomiting and cramping .

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, anyone can get infected with norovirus, and you can get it more than once. It is estimated that a person will get norovirus about 5 times during their lifetime. Many people usually get sick with norovirus in cooler months, especially from November to April.

Typically, the stomach flu lasts for one or two days, but there have been cases lasting only hours, and cases lasting more than two days. It has the most severe effects on young children, the elderly and people with pre-existing medical conditions.

Currently, there is no medication or vaccine to prevent the stomach flu, and those who contract it are contagious immediately and up to a few days after the symptoms have passed.

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How To Treat Gi Symptoms In Kids

Whatever pathogen is causing your child’s gastrointestinal symptoms, keep a watchful eye on them and make sure they stay hydrated. “Hydration is the most important thing, especially in little ones,” says Dr. Mayrgoa. “Children, especially infants, are at high risk of getting dehydrated quickly.”

Even small sips of water help when your child can’t keep anything down, says Dr. Maynard. You can also offer liquids with electrolytes, like Pedialyte or a store-brand electrolyte drink. An indicator that your child is getting enough fluids is they’re able to urinate a few times a day, says Dr. Maynard.

Other ways to handle GI symptoms include getting plenty of rest, eating small amounts of bland food , and taking over-the-counter pain medication to relieve any discomfort .

You shouldn’t hesitate to call your child’s pediatrician if you’re concerned they’ve become dehydrated, or if they’re showing other concerning symptoms, such as severe diarrhea that lasts for several days, blood in the stool, or a high fever. Dr. O’Shea adds that intense stomach pain that lasts more than two hours, makes your child double over in pain, or is located in the right lower area of the abdomen warrants a call to the doctor as well.

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