Chances are, you know of at least one friend, relative or coworker who has come down with the dreaded stomach flu this season; or you may have even caught it yourself. The term stomach flu is actually a misnomer, influenza is actually a respiratory infection. What is commonly referred to as the stomach flu is actually what doctors like to call gastroenteritis, which means inflamed and irritated stomach lining. The stomach flu can have a variety of causes – anything from bacteria, viruses, chemicals in your food, medications, even too much caffeine!
HOW TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE THE STOMACH FLU
Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a low grade fever are all heralds of this rather unpleasant affliction.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A typical stomach flu can last anywhere from 12 hours to a few days; most often around 24 hours. The digestive tract is very self-sufficient, and the vomiting and diarrhea is your body trying to get rid of the irritant, so avoid anti-diarrheals or your may prolong your infection. It is best to just stay hydrated and let the illness run its course. Keep a close eye on your temperature and get lots of rest!
WHAT YOU CAN DO AT HOME
Drink clear liquids and stay hydrated. A lot of people think that sports drinks are a good way to stay hydrated when stomach upset is involved, however the drinks usually contain too many carbs or salts to be beneficial. Pedialyte is a better choice.
Get plenty of rest. Your body is fighting some sort of contagion, which uses a lot of energy! Make sure you give yourself a break to deal with it.
Peppermint essential oil can help with nausea.
WHAT URGENT CARE CAN DO TO HELP
Urgent Care centers provide a few anti-nausea options that could provide the relief you need to sleep through the rest of your virus. If at any point you see blood in your stool or vomit, your fever goes above 101 degrees F, you have severe abdominal pain or swelling, your vomiting continues for more than 48 hours, seek medical attention. If you are dehydrated, you’ll be given fluids, and in some cases a prescription anti-nausea medication. Antibiotics will only be used if an infection is positively identified.
AVOID CONTAMINATING OTHERS
It’s important to take precautions to avoid passing the virus on to others. Wash your hands often, use clorox or lysol on surfaces that you’ve been in contact with, and make sure to wash your clothes and dishes with very hot water. The stomach flu – since it’s most commonly caused by a virus, travels quickly in small spaces, and can easily move through each person in your household.
