How to Treat Flu and Diarrhea

The dreaded stomach flu is a virus that frequently sneaks up on its unsuspecting victims. Severity of the sickness often depends on the virus as does the level of treatment. Several tips, however can pump up your immune system and soothe those nasty flu symptoms. Follow these guidelines to feel better fast.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Juice
• Soda crackers
• Toast

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Instructions

• 1

  Settle your stomach. The Mayo Clinic recommends refraining from eating or drinking for a few hours after initial symptoms. Then, slowly begin to eat bland, easily digestible foods such as soda crackers, toast, gelatin, bananas, rice and chicken. Stop eating if nausea returns.

• 2

  Fill up on fluids. The most common symptom of the stomach flu is diarrhea which leads to dehydration. According to the Centers for Disease Control, rehydration should start at home. Drink liquids such as water and juice or consult your doctor about providing an electrolyte mixture to take during the course of your illness.

• 3

  Rest. Sleep and inactivity can be the body's best friend for regaining strength and replenishing energy. Dehydration generally makes people weak and tired.

• 4

  Use medications sparingly. Treatments such as ibuprofen can make your stomach more upset. Use acetaminophen like Tylenol cautiously. Remember that the stomach flu is a virus and bacterial antibiotics will not work against it.

• 5

  Consult a physician if you experience any of the following: inability to keep liquids down for 24 hours, vomiting for more than two days, fever of 104 degrees or more, blood in vomit or stools, or severe weakness.