How to Treat the 24-Hour Flu

The 24-hour flu refers to the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The germs which cause the 24-hour flu usually enter your body through the mouth. Calling it the 24-hour flu is a bit of a misnomer as it has no relationship with a true influenza infection. Even so, you're going to want to treat the 24-hour flu while you have it in order to reduce the symptoms and discomfort associated with it.

Things You'll Need

• Lots of fluids
• Anti-diarrheal compounds
• Antibiotics if needed

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Instructions

Treat the 24-Hour Flu

• 1

  Begin a process of rehydration almost immediately. Gastroenteritis is known for causing marked decline in fluids in the system as a result of vomiting and diarrhea. Drink plenty of water or buy drinks known to replenish and increase electrolyte levels. It is important, however, to rehydrate slowly since the stomach is going to be sensitive and further vomiting is likely.

• 2

  Take antibiotics to fight the 24-hour flu as directed by your doctor. Fluoroquinolone is one of the more effective antibiotic therapies used to treat the 24-hour flu. Again, there is the possibility of vomiting, which can make retaining antibiotics problematic, but when done with care they are highly effective.

• 3

  Treat the 24-hour flu with an antidiarrheal agent like loperamide. This will help to prevent the rapid loss of fluid which occurs as a combination of diarrhea and vomiting. Loperamides should only be taken in smaller doses or as directed by a doctor since they can make the passage of stool difficult.

• 4

  Treat moderate gastroenteritis using simple over-the-counter medications containing bismuth subsalicylate. Pepto Bismol is one of the best examples of an effective over the counter medication that can be helpful in treating less severe cases of 24-hour flu.

• 5

  Learn more about causes, prevention and treatment of gastroenteritis at PDRhealth.com (see Resources below).