About Stomach Flu

Viral gastroenteritis, otherwise known as the stomach flu, is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Caused by a virus, it is often confused with the influenza bug, but is actually caused by any one of a number of viruses including rotaviruses and astroviruses. Although the symptoms are similar to salmonella or food poisoning, those effects are caused by bacteria not a virus. The stomach flu can be self-diagnosed, or if symptoms are troublesome or severe, a doctors' visit with a resulting stool sample will determine the exact cause or strain of the virus attacking the individual's system.

Significance

• For most people, gastroenteritis subsides and people can recover without even seeing a doctor. However, if symptoms are not treated and the individual does not consume enough fluids to replace those lost, the stomach flu can turn into a serious matter. People whose immune systems are comprised due to age or chronic illness may need to be hospitalized to prevent dehydration. Especially dangerous for the elderly or infants, prevention of the illness is vital in protecting their overall health and vitality.

Time Frame

• The stomach flu usually introduces itself during a one- to two-day period of mild symptoms, followed by anywhere from one to 10 days of symptoms, depending on which viral family is responsible for the illness. Most people feel better within a few days as long as they actively replace the fluids lost during the worst of the symptoms.

Features

• The stomach flu is commonly recognized by the presence of diarrhea and vomiting. Much like influenza, a person may also suffer from headache, fever and cramping. An overall feeling of fatigue usually means those suffering are bedridden or taken out of their normal routine for a few days to a week.

Effects

• Dehydration and fatigue are the two greatest effects from the vomiting and diarrhea associated with the stomach flu. Cramping and fever can also be associated with the illness. These symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter flu remedies.

Prevention/Solution

• Although there is no vaccine currently available for the stomach flu, there are vaccines in the works to help prevent severe diarrhea due to a rotavirus in infants and children. Otherwise, treatment for gastroenteritis revolves around the replacement of fluids lost due to the symptoms. Generally, people use over-the-counter products like Gatorade to replace lost electrolytes, and drink plenty of fluids to address dehydration worries. Antibiotics have no effect on the stomach flu.

  Prevention is as easy as washing your hands. This is especially important for people who have a lot of contact with others such as those who work in the service industry or health care field.

  Some home remedies or tips are useful in the treatment of the illness. Common tips include simple things like eating crackers, and drinking ginger tea. When you are on the road to recovery, eating yogurt can help you get your digestive system back up and running again, as it helps to replace the good bacteria needed to digest food. Keep to clear liquids during your illness, but when you are back on solid foods, add some yogurt.