Stomach Flu

What You Need to Know About Stomach Flu

About

Stomach flu is an intestinal infection that occurs when the stomach or intestines become inflamed or irritated.
Although, stomach flu can be diagnosed at any age, it most commonly affects children under five years of age.

1. Self-diagnosable
2. Intestinal infection.
3. Partly preventable by vaccination
4. Usually self-treatable
5. Spreads easily
6. Short-term: resolves within days to weeks.
7. Lab tests, imaging often required.
Stomach flu is not the same as influenza as it attacks the intestines, unlike the regular flu that affects the respiratory system. Depending on the cause, its symptoms may appear within 1-3 days after being infected, and can range from mild to extreme. It can be caused by some virus (like rotavirus or norovirus), bacteria like E.coli or salmonella or by parasites.

Symptoms

People may experience:
1. Fever
2. Nausea
3. Vomiting
4. Diarrhea
5. Abdominal cramps and pain
6. Muscle or a headache
7. Chills

Treatment

Self-care:
1. Drinking fluids
2. Acupressure
3. Rest well
4. BRAT diet inclusive of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast
5. Avoid dairy products, spicy and fibrous food
6. Avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol

Medications:
Anti-diarrheal medication, antibiotics can be taken under doctor’s guidance and prescription.
Specialists:
Consult a doctor if the symptoms are evident and the condition worsens. At mfine, we provide accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plans for all health concerns under a team of qualified doctors."