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Stomach Virus Treatment

The common stomach virus is also known as the stomach flu. However, there are no types of actual flu viruses that cause the condition. Stomach flu symptoms begin with stomach pains, headaches and sometimes a fever. As the stomach virus kicks in, vomiting and diarrhea occur. A whole viral gastroenteritis episode generally lasts from a few days to 10 days. With proper treatment, you can lessen symptoms and speed up recovery from a stomach virus.

  1. Diet for a Stomach Virus

    • Dehydration is very common with a stomach virus when diarrhea and vomiting start. Loss of important vitamins and minerals is also common with stomach flu due to vomiting and diarrhea. Replenish fluids, vitamins and minerals by purchasing drinks that contain electrolytes. Buy fluids that contain ingredients such as sodium, calcium, potassium, chlorine, phosphate and magnesium, which are electrolytes that your body needs. You can find drink products that contain electrolytes in child medication aisles. Follow the instructions on the product for treatment. Give yourself a break for a couple of hours after vomiting and before you attempt to drink water or electrolyte beverages. Avoid acidic drinks such as orange juice, milk and carbonated sodas, which will cause your stomach virus symptoms to become much worse.

      Eat mild foods when you are suffering from the stomach flu. Consume Jell-o and clear soups, such as chicken broth. after a day or two when symptoms have started. Start eating saltine crackers and toast when vomiting starts to become less frequent. Move on to soft noodles and other bland semi-solid foods when vomiting has subsided to every four hours or more. Resume your normal eating habits when severe viral gastroenteritis symptoms have subsided after a few days.

    Viral Gastroenteritis Treatment

    • Rest your body as much as you can and avoid strenuous activities. Your stomach and intestines have been under a great deal of stress from the stomach virus. Consult your family doctor if symptoms do not begin to subside after a few days or if vomiting and diarrhea become unbearable. Your doctor can prescribe or recommend an anti-vomiting or diarrhea medication to ease your discomfort. He may also run tests for parasites or other conditions if your viral gastroenteritis does not start to go away.

    Stomach Flu Prevention

    • Prevent the transmission of your stomach virus by not sharing foods or drinks with anyone. Frequently wash your hands and have others do so before eating or drinking. Bodily fluids spread the stomach flu very easily, so avoid kissing and other personal contact.

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