How to Treat Stomach Flu

The stomach flu, commonly known as gastroenteritis, is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Fortunately, according to MedicineNet, these symptoms tend to clear up within two to five days. In the meantime, it's important to take care of yourself while taking measures to stop the stomach flu from spreading to those around you, as the disease is usually contagious.

Eat Carefully

• Give your stomach a break by avoiding solid foods for a while. Once the nausea begins to subside, eat easily digestible foods such as rice, bread and crackers. While these are bland options, especially by themselves, they are not likely to trigger new waves of nausea. As you wait for the stomach flu to pass, avoid dairy products, such as cheese and ice cream, and heavily seasoned foods.

Hydrate

• You will need to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. You could also suck on ice chips, if actually drinking water is uncomfortable for your upset stomach. However, water alone won't be enough to replenish electrolytes. These key substances are lost when perspiration and vomiting become frequent due to the stomach flu. Replenish them by drinking caffeine-free sports drinks. Sip on these, rather than chugging them. By drinking them too quickly, you'll simply provoke your nausea. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages entirely until the stomach flu is out of your system. Also avoid apple juice or other fruit juices that may worsen diarrhea.

Rest and Quarantine

• Stay in bed. Not only will this give your body time to rest, but it will also help other members of your household dodge your contagious condition. When possible, avoid physical contact and always make sure your hands are clean. Once the stomach flu has passed, wash your clothes and bedsheets, as they may contain contagious traces of gastroenteritis.

Medicate

• While it may be tempting to reach for your medicine cabinet, you may not find much relief from the stomach flu in there. Ibuprofen medicines, such as Advil, can worsen an upset stomach. Acetaminophen products, such as Tylenol, could put additional strain on your already ailing body, especially your liver. When dealing with a young person (whether a child or a teenager), MayoClinc warns that you should avoid administering aspirin, as it could lead to Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal condition.

  WebMD notes that ailing adults may be prescribed medicines, such as Zofran, Compazine and Anergan, to control vomiting. However, these drugs are typically not for younger individuals.