Stomach Flu

Stomach Flu Herbal Remedies

2011-07-31T03:48:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, but the unpleasant symptoms of vomiting, persistent diarrhea and abdominal pain is something you want to know. In a world where there is no relief for the smallest of the disease, gastroenteritis, what you want to leave the course.

The explanation is simple: the virus has entered your body because your body is an amazing piece of technology that can work harder to draw. While these projections of diarrhea and vomiting in the bathroom trips are not present beautiful images, in fact, is a very effective method of healing.

Ordered access to the nearest pharmacy for medicines against diarrhea or running with the doctor, one thing is not the choice Savy if you are the President of the United States, with a major speech that the country continues to wave, or you are a person known to go to the Emmy Awards. If none of the above, then the best thing as a job and only one or two days off.

However, if you have a one-minute break between two trips to the bathroom, you need to relieve some drugs herbsl on her belly. Although this is not to cure the stomach flu, can offer some relief and helps the stomach, catching up with nature. The advantage of herbal medicine is that the side effects of drugs and hardly little or no br much cheaper than normal.

Here are some useful herbal remedies for stomach flu:

Ginger

When it comes to nausea and vomiting, ginger can be a great benefactor. Ginger is often those who suffer from motion sickness. The exemption can be made by drinking ginger tea or chewing a good piece of ginger available. Candied ginger can also help relieve nausea.

Peppermint

Peppermint tea has the ability to relax the abdominal muscles. The abdominal muscles are in a crisis like a stormy sea, and this can help some of them.

Chamomile

We usually employed by the drink with quiet nights, when we are not able to sleep. Chamomile, however, this does not help people fall asleep, to have a good friend when it comes to taming the stomach flu. A cup of chamomile tea helps stomach problems is a much better way. Be careful with the use of chamomile, if you are allergic to ragweed.

Blueberry

Dried cranberries are rich in fiber and provide the other ingredients: anthocyanins, which are probably e-coli bacteria. This solution is used for many years to treat diarrhea in children.

Lemon juice

Although high acidity may cause more harm than good if a little "" "of water to dilute the lemon juice can kill harmful germs. A few drops of your favorite tea can also be added.

Herbal remedies can be very useful for patients with gastroenteritis. Unlike drugs and offers full support interefering with the healing process of the natural body. Available with a BRAT diet of bread, rice, apple and Brindisi, calm the stomach, and finally you can relax.

Stomach Flu: Tips How to Deal With Kids

2011-07-31T03:44:00.000-07:00

We all have, we all fear and hope he never. What am I talking about? Gastroenteritis. But I must say I was not really the full effect of the stomach flu experience before they lived in a house full of children. Ah, the joys of fatherhood! As I write this, I have three kids at home with him four patients. Here are some tips I've learned over the years, been a bit "easy", when kids throw up.

Eat apples. If the child does not eat apples began to vomit. Fresh whole apples with the skin in any way to calm the stomach and vomiting can often be avoided.
He has a bowl of vomit. Children can make a rule to the bathroom in time and the carpet, furniture store, etc., making it much easier to clean if they are not big enough for the fourth time in the cockpit.
Cover the area in which they occur. I have a big blanket on the couch and a few towels on the floor before focused on my youngest son for the day. So if your cup be taken lightly, and wash clothes losses. If at night, put towels on the floor beside the bed or pillow for easy cleaning to do. My carpets cleaned several times over the years and I do not want to do again.
Get rid of the extras in their beds. If you are sick during the night, surrounded by stuffed animals, dolls, etc., you know what's probably the day after washing. If you know your child is ill, so to bed, make your life easier and to limit what they find.
Move into your room at night. We have a very thick, soft sleeping bag on the floor and move our young people in our room for the night. We are there when they need us, and prevents them from crawling out of bed with the top, go to the bathroom.
With food and drinks are prepared. Gatorade or Powerade in my company always at all times. Children can quickly dehydrated and need something to drink during the day cream. Popsicles are good for. I want the quiet, sweet biscuits, chicken noodle soup, ginger ale and cider on hand to help the stomach and start eating. The last thing I want to do is to a sick child to the store, you feel better.

The virus that causes gastroenteritis in a person can stay for several days after the resumption, and can in a house that has been sick for two weeks in order to survive. If you know someone who has a stomach flu lately knows, the best thing you can do to stay away from them. It can be frustrating, because it is good and the need to return, school, etc. work, but you are still contagious. If you want to prevent the spread of stomach flu to stop to try to stay longer to go home for a few days need. Spend some time "at home and hope disinfectants to kill the virus before the new one.

Stomach flu: Questions and Ideas

2011-07-31T03:40:00.000-07:00

I have the stomach flu right now and everything i eat...i throw it back up :( i even threw up sprite and im super hungry right now does anybody know something that i can eat that i wont throw up?

Spicy sausage usually is the best, or Try peeled boiled apples. Or ask you Dr. for an throw up suppositories, they should work.

You can do a lot to help you through this.

Gargle with unrefined sea salt and water. Make sure to swish the the salt between your teeth as well.

Take a tablespoon of raw unfiltered apple cider, cinnamon, and cayenne in a glass of water three times a day. This will get your stomach to begin functioning properly and return your gut to a proper PH level. Swish a swig between your teeth and tounge first.

Drink six glasses of clean water with 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt every day until the flu is gone.

If the flu last more than a day after you start this process, add a drop of oregeno oil to your apple cider vinegar.

I have a tension in my stomach, constipation, dehydration, bloating, irritability, and a lack of appetite. Is this a stomach flu and what should I do to relieve the symptoms?

Burnt toast, no butter no jelly no nothing. wash it down with warm water and lemon juice. the burnt toast will ease the irritation and the water / lemon juice mix will help with the dehydration. feel better soon

I think I have the stomach flu because I had diarrhea last night and I couldnt stop vomiting. I would even vomit when i drank water. I stopped vomiting today but now, everytime I cough, my body starts to hurt because i have a lot of mucus in my stomach/throat. How can I get rid of it? I blow my nose but it doesn't really come out. I can feel it in my throat and my stomach.

There is actually no such disease as the stomach flu although people commonly use this phrase. Influenza virus infects the respiratory tract (lungs). You have a viral or bacterial infection and should go see a doctor. There are quite a few different microbes that can cause these symptoms. The dr can prescribe medications that will help with the diarrhea and vomiting (my husband had exactly the same symptoms on a recent vacation and the anti-vomiting, anti-diarrheal meds really helped him). Most of these gastrointestinal infections are self-limiting and will go away within a week if you rest and try to keep yourself hydrated (sip a small amount of water or gatorade every 10 minutes, rather than taking a large drink). The mucus is your body's response to the infection. You can't really get rid of it easily; it will eventually go away when you resole the infection.

Yesterday I had the stomach flu and I thought that there has got to be some good natural ways to ease the stomach flu. I get the stomach flu strangely often but doctors say it is just stress and foods which makes sense to me. So what are some non medication remedies for nausea and stomach flu?

I have found that saltine crackers and 7-up (the secret with 7-up is to stir it up to get rid of the carbonation). It also depends if you run a fever with it. Which sounds like this time (thank-god) is not a problem. However, if that does occur in the future..you can get through it without meds. [WARNING: if it is higher then 102, go to the Doctor as you will need antibiotics] I just try to utilize as much 'cures' as possible before medicines, I feel that if done this way, when something real mean 'gets' me..then the medicines will be able to work properly!

So when I do have a low grade temp, I have gotten a bath drawn and I good book--then after about 30 minutes, I get my favorite PJs and curl up. My mom use to say 'sweat the fever out 'but I say do it comfortably, I love lots of crafts..so there are accomplishments!!

How does the stomach flu start out?

Stomach virus or Gastroenteritis is otherwise known as stomach flu. Diarrhea is the major symptom of stomach upset. The other stomach flu symptoms such as vomiting and feeling comfortable when stuck in toilet for long hours make a person get upset. Everything happens due to viral infection.

I am doubtful that headaches are a starting symptom. You would expect nausea and stomach cramps.

However as I have said if it is viral then maybe but unlikely.

I hope you get better soon.

How do you know when the stomach flu has passed and when can you start eating dairy again?

There is no way to know for sure, but generally a stomach virus should be resolved in 10 days to two weeks.

How can you tell the difference between having the stomach flu and a bacterial infection: food poisoning?

The difference between stomach flu (sic) and a bacterial infection caused by food poisoning. There's no such thing a stomach flu.

You know those TV ads for yoghurt that contains "good bacteria"? Well, you already have lots of good bacteria living inside your intestines. Some were given to you by your mother when she breastfed you and some you've picked up during your life from the food you've eaten. They all live happily inside you, helping to digest the food you eat. If something throws them out of kilter- say some new bacteria try to muscle in on their territory (food poisoning), then you become unwell; your small intestine becomes a battleground, food is not digested and it exits anyway it can- vomit if it's near enough to the top, or diarrhoea if it's lower down. Your bodies own defences get involved to sort out the problem (this can also result in D&V- your defences don't discriminate between "good" and "bad" bacteria- both are alien to the body. The helpful ones are only tolerated in the digestive system because technically it's outside the body (not in contact with blood)).

I digress. Basically, you've had a bacterial infection & it's getting better. Don't worry about having lost all your good bacteria- colonies hang around in out-of-the-way places like the appendix and will pop out and start repopulating your gut as soon as the cost is clear. Interestingly- when you go on holiday and don't drink the local water 'cos it'll make you ill; the reason the locals get away with drinking it is 'co they've been drinking it all their life and are already colonised with the local bacteria. They'd probably have just the same problem if they started drinking your local water. Bottled water has all bacteria removed from it to make it drinkable to everyone.

How long is the stomach flu contagious?

Its trickier than you think, actually. You aren't sure which virus it was. And you don't know when your daughter picked it up. And you don't know that IF you picked it up, was it on the first day your sons had it or on say, the 5th day.

But a good rule of thumb is 5-14days.

But if you've gotten zero symptoms for 7 days after your daughter's bout, I'd bet money you were ok.

How can i get rid of stomach flu ?

There's often no specific medical treatment for viral gastroenteritis. Antibiotics aren't effective against viruses, and overusing them can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. Treatment consists of self-care steps.

To help keep yourself more comfortable and prevent dehydration while you recover, try the following:

* Let your stomach settle. Stop eating and drinking for a few hours.
* Try sucking on ice chips or taking small sips of water. You might also try drinking clear soda, such as 7UP or Sprite; clear broths; or noncaffeinated sports drinks, such as Gatorade. Affected adults should try to drink plenty of liquid every day, taking small, frequent sips.
* Ease back into eating. Gradually begin to eat bland, easy-to-digest foods such as soda crackers, toast, gelatin, bananas, rice and chicken. Stop eating if your nausea returns.
* Avoid certain foods and substances until you feel better. These include dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and fatty or highly seasoned foods.
* Get plenty of rest. The illness and dehydration may have made you weak and tired.
* Be cautious with medications. Use medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) sparingly, if at all. They can make your stomach more upset. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) cautiously. It sometimes can cause liver toxicity, especially in children.

When your child has an intestinal infection, the most important goal is to replace lost fluids and salts. These suggestions may help:

* Help your child rehydrate. Give your child an oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte. Don't use water — in children with gastroenteritis, water isn't absorbed well and won't adequately replace lost electrolytes. You can find oral rehydration solutions in most grocery stores. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about how to use them. Avoid giving your child apple juice for rehydration — it can make diarrhea worse.
* Get back to a normal diet slowly. Gradually introduce bland, easy-to-digest foods, such as toast, rice, bananas and potatoes.
* Avoid certain foods. Don't give your child dairy products and sugary foods, such as ice cream, sodas and candy. These can make diarrhea worse.
* Make sure your child gets plenty of rest. The illness and dehydration may have made your child weak and tired.
* Don't give children or teenagers aspirin. It may cause Reye's syndrome, a rare, but potentially fatal, disease. Avoid giving your child over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications such as Imodium unless advised by your doctor. They can make it harder for your child's body to eliminate the virus.

If you have a sick infant, let your baby's stomach rest for 15 to 20 minutes after vomiting or a bout of diarrhea, then offer small amounts of liquid. If you're breast-feeding, let your baby nurse. If your baby is bottle-fed, offer a small amount of an oral rehydration solution or regular formula. Don't dilute your baby's formula.

What's the difference between stomach flu and food poisoning?

Could be either, stomach flu is obviously caused by a virus, and food poisoning is caused by bacteria. Without further symptoms, like fever, I'd bet it's a virus and just has to run it's course. It would benefit you to get some probiotics to replace the good bacteria your intestines use for digestion.

When will my stomach flu fully healed? What drinks are suitable for those who have stomach flu?

I just got over a stomach infection myself. Avoid chocolates, they're hard to digest, and while it would be good to avoid dairy products like milk and cream, curd and yoghurt are good for your stomach. They both contain lactobacillus, which is a probiotic, that means they help your stomach digest things easier.

Have a good liquid diet, because it's important to keep your body fluid levels high. If you have a good appetite you can eat simple, easy to digest food. Vegetables like carrots and beans can be boiled and are light on the stomach. Avoid heavier stuff like potatoes, eggplants etc. Fruits are good too.

Definitely stay off fried stuff, junk food and fast food. Drink lots of water and stay rejuvenated. All the best!

How exactly (besides some of the symptoms) is stomach flu different than the flu where you just get achy?

The flu vaccine only protects against certain types of flu. It seems there is always new strains every year. There are different types of flu. One you get achy, fever, chills. One you get intestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, fever, achiness. One you get sore throat, sinus symptoms, cough, fever. Different virus causes different symptoms.

How long after stomach flu can you eat normal food?

Eat rice and steamed vegetables at first. Ease yourself back into it.

How early are you contagious before showing symptoms of the stomach flu?

I believe people can be contagious before they display symptoms. As for the air, viruses can be airborne from tiny droplets in the air secreted from the infected persons mucous membranes. If they sneeze in your direction, you can get it.

What are the beginning signs of the stomach flu?

I have it right now, so the day before or the night before your going to feel like burping or your stomach is very hard. A fever, high or moderate will be presence. Also when you have it, your going to vomit and have Diarrhea at the same time. Your are going to feel very weak, have a serious headache. Also your are going to shiver at times (sometimes so bad that you wont be able to stop it), and sweat so much sometimes. Your body will hurt, and your are going to feel tired and drowsy.

Puking and pooping at the same time, and your whole body hurting. Alternating between chills and sweats.

How long does the stomach flu virus last on surfaces around your house?

As long as it took for Someone to come along & clean them off ! Stomach Flu is NASTY stuff, and as contagious as all get out... Since it spreads the fastest by person-to-person contact, I would wait at least a WEEK after onset of the Illness- before I had anyone over... :(

If you have the stomach flu and you eat teriyaki chicken, will it make you throw up?

When you have the stomach flu you should have a very light diet with plenty of clear fluids. Teriyaki chicken will not be a good idea while ill.

How do you get your energy back after having stomach flu?

Eat very healthy for a few days then start to exercise more and more, even if you dont do this you'll be back to normal eventually...

Would a stomach flu with several bouts of vomiting cause laryngitis?

Yes it could. The acid from your stomach can burn your vocal cords. If this last more that four days see your doctor.

How do i treat the stomach flu without a doctors visit?

Eat a bland diet. Doctors often recommend a BRATY diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, and yogurt).

Do not eat anything that has fat in it. Lots of people go to soups, but soups have lots of fat in it. Eat plain potatoes that you cook to mush or make mashed potatoes (w/o butter).

Ginger is good to calm the stomach. Drink ginger ale or make some ginger tea.

If you take Pepto-Bismol be aware that it is causes the stools to turn black and don't be alarmed by by the black stools while on Pepto-Bismol.

Drink plenty but, sip anything you drink, do not overload your stomach with fluids. If you drink Gatorade - water it down - half water/half Gatorade (lots of sugar in Gatorade). Maybe drink G2 instead.

Stomach flu usually lasts about 4 days. If you are still ill after that, you probably should see a doctor on the fifth day. If you are running a high fever (over 101) and having moderate to severe pain, then you need to see a doctor much sooner.

How can I stop my fear of the stomach flu?

I have had the same problem for several years....i dont know what happened though..i just got over it...it took a while but i gradually became more comfortable with the idea of throwing up...and now i almost dont care:)

Prevent Stomach Flu

2011-07-31T03:19:00.001-07:00

To understand the most effective ways to prevent the stomach, it helps to know what causes the stomach flu and how it spreads disease.

Gastroenteritis, viral gastroenteritis, which is called by the medical team, is actually caused by a virus and is not really a form of influence. However, the term stomach flu at a common place for decades and is now part of the language.

Viral gastroenteritis is initiated when one of the many virus enters the digestive tract - usually through the mouth. Intestinal virus can easily be carried in the air and floats on air currents for surprising ways. If someone is home to land the symptoms of gastroenteritis, a good chance that the virus is circulating on the counters, sinks, bathtubs and other areas that are often influenced by man. Keep surfaces clean and sanitized food at home is essential for the prevention of stomach.

Gastroenteritis can directly from person to person as well as be transferred. You can use the virus by touching, kissing or shaking hands with an infected person, even if they are sick to catch.

Eating foods that have been touched by someone with the virus is another way to get the stomach flu. This is one of the many reasons for the municipal health inspectors insist that restaurant employees wash their hands frequently. But at home, you should also make sure that no utensils, glasses, towels or share with someone who is infected. Clothing should be worn by infected persons to be washed as soon as possible.

Some foods can be contaminated before buying. Shellfish contaminated water are an example. Contaminated drinking water is another source of the virus.

Wash your hands often and diligent is the best way to prevent the stomach flu. The idea is that viruses from the hands before the mouth is that something that people often unconsciously, in a day. Hand washing is especially important to change before eating and after using the toilet or diapers. Keep your free hand under running water and soap for at least 20 seconds.

In alcohol gels have become very popular in recent years, and to protect against certain types of stomach virus, but not all. It should not be a reliable method to be considered to prevent the stomach flu.

Anyone with symptoms of gastroenteritis should be to cook from the kitchen and definitely not for others. If you often cook for someone, you should wait at least three days after the decision of the symptoms before you start again with the cooking. It is not always practical, of course. But if anyone can cook, or you can take-out restaurant for a few days to reduce the risk of a family illness.

The prevention of stomach flu is hard work. You need to spend much more time than usual disinfection of floors, sinks, floors and other areas of your home or at work. A number of commercial disinfectants that are good for the neutralization of the main types of intestinal virus and you should read labels carefully when you use them. If you prefer a household disinfectant, bleach mixed with water, with one part bleach and 50 parts water. If you wash in an area where water quality is questionable, to live with a bleach and 10 parts water (obviously not for drinking).

Currently, there are two types of vaccines have been approved, which are formulated for the prevention of gastric flu, but only to the work against a virus. They protect against infection with acute diarrhea protect infants and young children. These vaccines are usually administered to children before their first birthday with other pediatric vaccines.

Researchers recently discovered that could lead to an effective vaccine against intestinal virus, but not yet completed from the date of publication of this article, no one had.

Survive Stomach Flu

2011-07-31T03:16:00.000-07:00

There is no cure, but there are ways of catching the stomach flu to survive in comfort. I feel better now! To deal with minimizing the severity of flu symptoms and to prevent some serious complications.

How to:

Simply Food

The best way to minimize the seriousness of the stomach flu is low, the plan to change the appearance of symptoms. Pediatricians recommend the BRAT diet for children but for adults. BRAT Bananas module (white) rice and potato (white) toast. These foods are soft and easy to digest. Remember, no butter, sweetener, spices together or toast of all kinds. White rice. Unsweetened apple juice. Plain old banana. This solution helps reduce nausea and diarrhea.

FLUID

Adequate fluid intake is important for any disease, but it is important for the survival of gastroenteritis. With the combination of nausea and diarrhea, severe dehydration can quickly set up and require intravenous fluids, hospitalization, or worse. Talk to your doctor for a sports drink does not contribute to hydration, but also the loss of valuable electrolytes in your body very quickly over.

REST

Sounds like a breeze, but I'm always, if you are sick, a great challenge for many. No matter what your personal liability for the rest, the more you get, the more you can try it for a speedy recovery.

Treating symptoms

Throbbing headache, do not stop? Can be described as "stomach flu", but symptoms can affect any part of the body. Use an analgesic effect, or in connection with a drug for the treatment of migraine. Ask your doctor.

Treat your patients

You probably have your doctor help you, but it is incredibly fast to survive the stomach flu much easier. If your nausea and vomiting, contact your doctor and ask your doctor to use a prescription anti-nausea suppositories. There is no need to distort his chest rose and fell in the bathroom for days. These drugs can cause nausea, vomiting, stop immediately. Why suffer?

Your Child Got Stomach Flu

2011-07-31T03:06:00.000-07:00

Stomach flu or gastroenteritis is a condition in which the stomach and intestines and infect the gastrointestinal tract is affected in society. Often people suffer from this condition, because the food that is contaminated by water or parasites such as bacteria and viruses in question. This may be due to the presence of toxins in plants and seafood Many people take laxatives to get rid of constipation and may also cause this condition.

A child with gastroenteritis cutting abdominal pain and cramps. You feel very weak and eat something. You feel like vomiting and diarrhea were also more fever and dehydration. This period can last about five days. The child should be given plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and this will also prevent the disease worse. The body loses too much water and salt at the time. Then the water was not sufficient at that time. There are a number of specific beverages such pedilite contribute to the renewal of water and salt in the body. All of these can be easily purchased in pharmacies. They come in different flavors and can be easily digested.

Sugar and water must be added to these drinks, because they have the right amount of water, salt and sugar that the body needs. Add a little 'more about these drinks can delay recovery. If she vomits frequently, then the liquid should be administered with a spoon for 2 minutes. The amount should be increased gradually. These drinks can also be combined with ice for a child to vomit. This causes the body with the necessary amount of liquid will be. Until the diarrhea has passed, the process must be repeated. But if the condition does not improve after 24 hours, then a physician should be consulted. Soft drinks, sports drinks, broth and apple juice are good for general health, but the body is not the exact amount of water, salt and sugar and can worsen the health of children in this state.

If the child receives the right amount of moisture and must sleep sunken eyes, dry mouth, thirst, urination, and continues the look less jagged. All kinds of fried, sweet and spicy should be avoided at all costs during this period. Be sure to wash your hands before eating to the child. A doctor should be consulted if the condition does not improve within 24 hours and may require the child to the emergency room if vomiting of blood or a substance in green. Blood and stool should be taken before antibiotics are prescribed. Prescribed medications to further reduce the nausea. If too much fluid is lost, the child can go to the hospital where you will receive an infusion of glucose. The doctor will check your child's progress continuously and see if it responds to treatment.

Recovering From Stomach Flu

2011-07-31T02:56:00.001-07:00

There is no cure for stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis). As this is a virus, antibiotics are not effective, and currently there is work for the stomach flu anti-viral. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and prevent dehydration. Symptoms of stomach flu usually lasts 1-3 days. In general, the stomach flu a nuisance and harmful. The biggest concern for dehydration associated with vomiting and diarrhea caused by viruses.

How to:
Prevent dehydration by drinking fluids. If it is difficult to keep the fluid through vomiting or stomach pain, a sip of water every 30 minutes for the stomach. Water and juice are good choices for the body to provide moisture. If the juice is very heavy on the stomach, try diluting with water.

Taking over-the-counter medications for diarrhea when the diarrhea is severe.

Reconstruct the digestive tract by beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus take. Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to levels of bacteria in the digestive system out of balance. Taking over-the-counter supplements of Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria to aid the digestive system to normal. Lactobacillus acidophilus is available in health food stores and some pharmacies.

Eat soft foods such as crackers, white bread and white rice fell by nausea, vomiting and stomach. If you can not stay for dinner, try a piece of bread to eat every 20 minutes.

However, you feel better, so that the body's energy for healing.

Stomach Flu While Pregnant

2011-07-31T02:53:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy and Stomach Flu: Keeping Mom and Baby Safe

Because the flu is bad enough, but the flu during pregnancy can be a nightmare. It 'a great opportunity comes worse, it is only a small number of drugs that are taken to reduce flu symptoms in a safe manner, and increased risk of complications from influenza. Therefore, it is best to answer them for pregnant women to do during flu season, all reasonable precautions for the virus, which is always a vaccine to prevent influenza hold.

A highly contagious influenza virus infection is caused upper respiratory tract, fever, muscle aches, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and weakness. The flu usually occurs in winter and spring, but can also affect the fall and spring. While the virus is a bad thing for those who are pregnant with the flu and have obtained particularly risky, because the immune system is weakened somewhat by a woman during pregnancy. For this reason, pregnant women are susceptible to increased symptoms for a long time, and the risk of complications such as pneumonia. Studies have shown that pregnancy and the influence means little to a fetus.

The best way to prevent pregnancy is to take the flu vaccine. Influenza vaccine is recommended for most women during pregnancy and are usually given in October or November, before flu season begins on the right side. The vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from viruses, to protect the many complaints, and you can save during flu season. Other ways to prevent pregnancy and the flu can be combined:

There may be one of the most important things you can do to prevent the disease: • Wash your hands frequently. Wash your hands before and after eating, after using the toilet and often during the day. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap to get rid of bacteria is one of the easiest ways to stay healthy.

Do not stay away from people who have a cold or flu: Common sense should people who are already sick, says to avoid. Contact is a simple way to contagious disease, so if possible, but you avoid all the patients until they are no longer contagious.

Keep your hands to the mouth, nose and eyes, as the seeds to give these special places, so do not try to touch her.

If you're unlucky, the flu, there are some things you do to relieve symptoms and heal faster. Remember, however, with pregnancy and the flu, there are many that take place can not use because it can be dangerous for you or your child. Make sure your doctor before taking any medicine for flu symptoms. The treatments will help treat the flu:

• Paracetamol for pain, fever
• Chlorpheniramine, an antihistamine
• Honey or other natural ingredients to the neck pills
• Many peace

Increased intake of fluids, especially water, fruit juices and tea

Because the flu is not fun. If the flu during pregnancy is very funny. The influence of pregnancy and should not be confused, so do yourself a favor by giving them a vaccine against the flu and preventive measures to avoid the virus.

If you are a more natural way to have the flu, we recommend instead a passion Lauricidin influenza vaccine to prevent the whole family.

Although I certainly think that Lauricidin WOMENT PREGNANT, I can not recommend a product or another. This policy is necessary because many things can affect the baby in the womb. It 'easy to blame the supplement. Follow the advice of your physician or health care professional.

Stomach Flu Videos Part2

2011-07-31T02:44:00.000-07:00

Stop a Stomach Flu

2011-07-31T02:43:00.001-07:00

Caused by different viruses that cause gastroenteritis is usually associated with diarrhea, nausea and vomiting caused marked associated with dizziness and fatigue. Gastroenteritis is highly contagious, so to avoid an action is the best way to avoid this. If you have a stomach flu, it is important to you quicker and less likely to take.

How to:

Wash your hands before eating and after using the toilet. Influenza virus can cause vomiting, stomach via the feces, saliva and sometimes even send. Norovirus and rotavirus, as flu is on the outer surfaces of the body parts, food and home for two weeks or longer to live.

Keep bathroom and kitchen clean. Do not use bleach or disinfectant bacterial others, like most of the rooms in your house, to kill, especially when someone is sick at home.

Stay home if the flu, stomach and still sick children from school. The rest is the best way to get the body fight the virus and the risk of spreading the virus in the country.

Avoid eating or drinking if your stomach is upset, or if you have vomiting or diarrhea. Food and drinks can irritate the stomach longer. If you do not feel hurt or was ill for two hours and try a few sips of water to see if you keep to yourself.

Eat simple, easy to digest, if you are sick. Crackers, toast or just a clear broth are all things that you will be able to eat when you feel better. To prevent a few days after the stomach flu, rich, fatty foods and acidic drinks. Some people suffer from diarrhea after dairy products had a stomach flu, so for a week or two should be avoided.

Stomach Flu: Can Garlic Kill It?

2011-07-31T02:41:00.000-07:00

The term stomach flu is actually a misnomer. The condition is actually gastroenteritis and can have various causes. One cause may be viral, but it is a kind of influence.

What happens in case of stomach flu are irritation and inflammation of various parts of the gastro-intestinal tract. May cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and other symptoms of malaise. If you do not have enough fluid can lead to dehydration. This is especially true for children.

Why have so many things can cause you to contact your doctor. They are on what to look for, what to do to be instructed, and when they arrive for a check-up. Children young and old, are visible immediately to prevent secondary problems such as dehydration.

Now, how low. In most cases, if the only answer. You may need supportive care to swallow, but most things you have to do is probably not good enough. This is especially true if the nausea and vomiting are part of the equation.

You should consult your doctor in advance what they have on hand if you or someone in your family to develop the disease. Most pediatricians recommend that parents keep the rehydration fluids are available at all times. These documents are available without a prescription.

The title of this article was asked, "the garlic can kill stomach flu." In a word, no. It would be wise of garlic you need some form of inflammation and gastrointestinal inflammation, because the situation could worsen. Garlic is anti-viral functions, but can become irritated after taking a hundred times worse.

There are some things I've always been a case of this problem. Oatmeal is one of them. If nausea or vomiting, try eating a bowl of oatmeal milk or cream without interruption. Take it easy, because your body does not want a lot of things, working the stomach faster.

Licorice is another option, but be careful with him. If you have diabetes, the use of DGL tablets, how much sugar in the root. Even if you have high blood pressure, do not use it at all. This remedy should not be given to young children.

Sports drinks can be "crucial to avoid dehydration. They are intended give athletes an advantage in sport and to help your electrolytes. They usually contain much sugar, so ask your doctor before use.

It's a good idea to ask your doctor or the doctor your child to speak at the first signs of the disease. Make sure your doctor knows all existing medical conditions and medications / supplements you are. This can help prevent side effects or drug / herb interactions.

Survive Pass Stomach Flu

2011-07-31T02:37:00.000-07:00

When viruses attack

You can feel. Your body starts to hurt. Your stomach starts churning and you can not find a comfortable position in which the stomach is relaxed. We hope you are at home when this happens and you try to set the stomach to relieve the sensations.

You try to ignore it, but before you know it, you're in the tub, and start thinking about what you ate for dinner the first night. The chills and fever.

Welcome to the world of stomach flu. From 24 to 48 hours of hell storm vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Nothing can seem to help and all you can say that the mother when she was younger, you think you begin to be pressed, and then sleeps "is a virus can not get medicine for your help."

There are medications that can treat the stomach flu. The best way to relieve the symptoms of gastro-intestinal relief is plenty of fluids and rest at ease. Fruit juices and drinks water, it is recommended that a low acidity and electrolytes, like Gatorade, is recommended to prevent diarrhea.

The food should be limited to the stomach is not upset. The best foods to eat biscuits, rice, bananas, bread and chicken broth. These foods are easily digestible and / or relax the digestive tract.

The stomach flu can last up to three days, ready for the long term. I hope you have someone to look to himself, and if not, good luck. You should also not be afraid to buy "adult diapers." Diarrhoea is not wait for the bathroom, especially under the pressure of the gas flow or folded into the bathroom and the lighting of the stomach.

Stomach Flu: Reference and Documents

2011-07-29T23:46:00.001-07:00

Stomach Flu: Reference and Documents

Uchicago.edu - Ca.gov - Threeriverspublichealth.org

Medcertinc.com - Tabernacle.k12.nj.us - Pdfreference.info

Brown.edu - Sedgwickcounty.org - Co.benton.or.us

The truth about stomach flu

2011-07-29T23:43:00.001-07:00

Have you heard of someone who is sick with the stomach flu? What does it mean to you? Most people know that if you say that you have the stomach flu, which have a certain set of symptoms. If you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cause, etc., said to be the stomach flu. But what few know is that there's really nothing like it. The term should be used is actually gastroenteritis. So what is the truth about the stomach flu? Ali

Gastroenteritis: So, what to see.

Gastroenteritis means irritated and inflamed stomach and intestines. There are different things, such as a virus can be caused, is what the consequences. However, influenza, or flu, is actually a respiratory illness. The bacteria irritate the stomach or gastrointestinal tract, too. Examples include salmonella and other bacteria in food due to illness (food poisoning).

Typically, this term is used to describe someone and suddenly falls ill, and that leads to diarrhea, vomiting, etc. This is the most common cause of foodborne bacteria, viruses etc. These parasites can spread quickly and without adequate food and water cleaning and preparation is the management body, and at the end of the gastro-intestinal tract, causing irritation and the symptoms described above.

Thus, the "stomach flu" are caused by bacteria, food poisoning is usually a lot. The most common bacteria that cause stomach and intestinal Escherichia coli. Salmonella, Campylobacter and Shigella.

Stomach flu "S" "can also be caused by a virus. Guilty common viruses include adenovirus, rotavirus, calicivirus, astrovirus, and norovirus. People spend these viruses and inanimate objects. For example, someone might sneeze on your hands then with a public computers on campus, etc., and the person next to the keyboard can transmit the virus and infected.

A less common cause of gastroenteritis in the United States of parasites. However, it is very common when traveling, and drinking polluted water. Or protozoa in contaminated water in the digestive tract if ingested and cause irritation. The most common parasites are Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

In addition to the above examples, there are many other things, gastroenteritis, which means that if you say it is not clear what the cause is the cause. Food allergies or intolerances can cause these symptoms, seafood, lead, toxic substances, caffeine, medications, including laxatives, steroids, and even your aspirin may fight the symptoms of what we create as "stomach flu".

So why is it important? It is because some infectious gastroenteritis and other important items. So if you are unsure, you should not disclose, you should always assume that they are contagious, and disappear in quarantine until the symptoms.

Take Care of Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T23:41:00.000-07:00

Headache, muscle aches, chills, fever, diarrhea and / or vomiting, nausea ... These are all symptoms of gastroenteritis. You have muscle aches, and I'm still sick with diarrhea for two days for signs of stomach flu and food poisoning. If someone with experience with this disease (I have 4 times in the last two years), I can give advice on how best to maintain when you are sick with the stomach flu.

Route

Consult a physician.

It is important to consult a doctor if you can, especially if it's the first time when you are in the fight against this disease. Sometimes antibiotics are prescribed. And follow your doctor can order.

Drink plenty of fluids.

If you have diarrhea or vomiting, your body is more susceptible to dehydration. It is clear that water hydrates the body, but Gatorade is a good way to fill your support. It tastes so do not get sick from drinking water and electrolytes is a bit of energy, especially if you eat too much and it is difficult for food in your system.

Eat simple meals.

Eat potatoes, rice, oatmeal, biscuits, bread. Single layer helps clean your digestive system. If you do not want anything too heavy, your stomach even more upset to eat. It can be difficult to follow a strict diet, but a few days or it will be painful, believe me.

Clear liquids helps. Try chicken soup or chicken spaghetti.

Go to the bathroom if necessary. Do not stop anything. It's the way the body of wastes and toxins in sales. Before you clear the virus before it.

More importantly, plenty of rest.

However, if you're sick, your body is telling you to slow down and relax so that you continue to fight.

Stomach Flu Contagious?

2011-07-29T23:38:00.001-07:00

If you came here to find an answer to the "stomach flu contagious" question, the answer is short and quick: "Yes."

Of course there are other things to look forward to be really sure that the stomach flu is highly contagious. The stomach flu is known as viral gastroenteritis. This is an infection of the intestine and there are many viruses that can cause this problem. This disease is a common cause, why go to the people in this country by episodes of diarrhea and vomiting. In itself, this disease is not something that is very serious, but not really dehydrated. It is very important to drink plenty when this error. This is especially true for children and the elderly.

But what are the symptoms and how you know you're really a bug? As already mentioned, are the main symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. In most cases, a person infected with this disease have 48-72 hours and can last up to 10 days.

It is a stomach flu contagious?

But back to the problem. Yes, it is contagious, but there are things you do, so it can not prevent transfer. Take a look at some of the things you can do:

Wash your hands often. Be sure to use warm water and rub too hard when you wash your hands. It is advised to wash their hands or more hours 0:59. Hand washing is the most important idea of the cause of friction between the rubbing of hands.

Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough. You should try to avoid covering your mouth with your hands, and instead of using it in the crook of your arm to do it. At some point, get your hands, but recent research shows that this is not the best way to do it.

Stomach Flu Videos Part1

2011-07-29T23:34:00.000-07:00

Stomach Flu: 9 Ways to Avoid

2011-07-29T23:33:00.000-07:00

Stomach flu is not really an influence. This is a form of indigestion caused by a virus. It is very similar to food poisoning, but is caused by bacteria.

Doctors, influenza is caused by a virus, so the name of the stomach flu.

The symptoms are usually nausea, vomiting and / or diarrhea, digestive problems, but none of them can be actually present.

If you are prone to stomach flu, it shows two things. The first is that the immune system is not strong enough to avoid catching a virus. The second is that the stomach is weak.

Everyone has a weakness. For some it is the lung. For others it is achieved. Perhaps your question is the digestive system.

And to prevent further attacks against the stomach flu, you need to address these two aspects. Here are the most effective ways to improve these areas:

Raw foods. All this is important. Make sure that at least 50% (preferably more) of fruits and raw vegetables. Enzymes are destroyed by cooking, but are essential to the health of the gastrointestinal tract.
To reduce acidic foods. These include processed foods (white sugar, artificial sweeteners, white flour, white rice, packets, fast food, etc.) and animal protein (meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products).
Digestive problems are that your liver is in danger. Medicines, vaccines, OTC medications, all drugs in the liver to weigh more or less. Avoid as much as possible. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption for the same reason. Try to avoid chemicals in your home.
Practice, a framework for taking a positive and optimistic. This goes a long way toward improving your overall health. Negative or pessimistic people are healthier. Out of your friends or colleagues that you pull down.
Get out in nature. Become a part of it. Joy as drops of rain, the sun rises, the keys of the leaves change color, fill bird hovers ...
Exercise in some way. You may need to walk your dog regularly, or go to the gym or doing yoga. Whatever you do, you need to do regularly and with pleasure.
Make sure you get enough sleep. You can be the ideal amount of three hours or eight hours. Only you know what it takes to remain vigilant. Make sure you get it.
First, you need plenty of sunshine at least one hour per day to ensure good health. The sun turns cholesterol into vitamin D should be the exhibition of bare skin (without sunscreen) and to the naked eye. Just do not overdo it or wear in the middle of a summer day.
Buy a kit at home, including homeopathic remedies for stomach flu. This way you can nip in the bud during an attack.

Stomach flu should not be a serious condition. But it could be a wake-up call for you to take corrective action. Proactive measures are now good for your future health. You can continue and can be expected to aggravate his condition.

Stomach Flu: How Long Does It Take to Gain Weight?

2011-07-29T23:30:00.001-07:00

Duration of stomach flu

You know: "How long does it take to gain weight after stomach flu", vary greatly depending on each person involved. No two people experience the dreaded disease in the same way if their symptoms are identical. There is also a large margin, or the time that each individual is "stuck" with the stomach flu.

Children can experience the dreaded stomach flu for about 1-2 days, and in severe cases up to a week, but only rarely. Children can recover from an illness is much faster than adults. Children tend to sufficient moisture, and better medical care of adults who sleep in their delivery at any time to achieve tend to ignore.

As with adults, the length of the stomach flu over the past two days, the typical amount of time, for an incredible period of two weeks. Occurs within two weeks of weight loss. The human body can go without water for about 24 hours, before serious damage can occur. Since food can, for about two weeks, with no serious or lasting damage can be avoided, but "how long it takes to get the weight after stomach flu" two weeks may seem like asking for all eternity.

What happens when you eat?

First, the body will be tired from lack of food, for which he desperately needs to function properly. Weight loss can begin almost immediately now, especially if diarrhea is persistent. The body has the ability to ensure food resources available for free, in itself, that is. Fat and muscle tissue is an all-you-can-eat buffet "and the body in order to get this function to find the energy.

If enough fat and muscle was used for vital organs to the next menu. This is the point where permanent damage can occur and death. Human organs can not function properly if they are damaged, and the body reacts accordingly in an attempt to adapt to change. Unfortunately, the body can not adapt to changes of this magnitude, and brain damage or death can occur.

Just long enough to gain weight after stomach flu? It is very likely that about two weeks to gain the weight back. In some cases, more time, or even tighter deadline. When the immune system is strengthened, and his appetite has increased steadily every day, the weight they lost.

Cure the Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T23:23:00.001-07:00

There is no cure for stomach flu, not just the weather. It is an intestinal virus, officially known as viral gastroenteritis. Like all viruses, the flu, the stomach does not respond to antibiotics for bacterial infections. In general, the stomach flu within two days to happen, if you have a rare form of the virus for up to 10 days. Although there is no cure, there are many things you can do to relieve symptoms. With proper care, you treat your stomach flu and I feel much better after.

Ask your doctor. If you have a severe case of flu, stomach, your doctor may prescribe medication to relieve symptoms. Counter medications can be used to prevent nausea and vomiting, diarrhea and pain medication to relieve cramps.

Drink a lot. Since the stomach flu often causes diarrhea, dehydration is a serious problem. While water is best, all you can drink clear fluids. Sports drinks are also a good choice because they contain electrolytes, the hydration process helps.

Keep your diet simple. Avoid fatty, salty foods, or the level of acid. Stay away from alcohol and caffeine together. Because your stomach is particularly sensitive if you have the flu, stay soft foods such as biscuits, bread and soups.

Rest of the immune system is working hard on the stomach flu, you must get adequate rest. Furthermore, their calorie intake is low, so you're not normal energy level. If you have the stomach flu, try to sleep 2-6 hours more than normal.

Try natural herbal tea. Chamomile can be used for an upset stomach and cramps due to the ease of the stomach flu to settle. Mint tea can be done to ease the pain of the gas associated with the stomach flu relief. Ginger tea can help with nausea. It also helps if the herbal tea without caffeine to keep your body hydrated.

Stomach Flu Pictures Part2

2011-07-29T23:21:00.000-07:00

Stomach Flu Pictures

Why You Have Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T23:14:00.000-07:00

To understand how people can help prevent the flu is the stomach. The stomach flu is actually a virus in the small intestine causes vomiting and diarrhea in some people. Correct name of the stomach flu, viral gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the intestine and the stomach of one of the many viral invaders. The stomach flu is highly contagious from person to person easily, especially in public places. The stomach flu is most active during the cold months of the year (October to April), although some species remain throughout the year.

Visiting public places such as nurseries, supermarkets, schools, homes or restaurants, inevitably, put it in the stomach flu.

Exposure to situations in which people cope with the stomach flu, his food. The flu virus is mainly transmitted through contact with bodily fluids and waste of people vomiting. If a food handler at a restaurant not washing their hands, the flu can be transmitted.

Get your hands dirty or surfaces touched by infected people. As with many diseases, the cough can transmit the virus to many people through the air and in person many surfaces such as tables, chairs and contaminate the cart handles.

Caring for a person infected with the stomach flu. If you try to avoid exposure, use great care to use your hands to wash and exposure to each patient to prevent, if he or she is with symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever or headache.

Food to share with each other or with objects contaminated people. As for the transfer during food preparation, this method is the transmission of stomach flu virus business through direct contact with the virus through contact with an infected person.

Stomach Flu: How Long Does The Flu last?

2011-07-29T23:11:00.000-07:00

Gastroenteritis is an upset stomach that produces the most troublesome symptoms. Gastroenteritis is the name of the organization known as the flu. Follow the right advice to heal, to prevent and get rid of stomach flu.

People can flu-like symptoms following gastroenteritis, including:

    Stomach pain and diarrhea, especially in
    * Vomiting vomiting
    Nausea and dizziness
    * Complaints of pain relief when they toilet visits and frequent diarrhea, nausea

Symptoms of gastroenteritis

Typical flu symptoms persist, even with the stomach flu, including high temperatures of about 100 F, 37.7 C, chills, muscle pain, cramps and exhaustion. Regular presence of explosive diarrhea and vomiting are common at the same time. This problem often leads to diarrhea gym bathroom doubly interesting.

Tips for cleaning

The influenza virus is highly contagious stomach to ensure that all areas clean. Counseling centers around the use of hydrogen peroxide or bleach bath areas clean, kill the virus in the stomach to fly. Make sure your hands are clean and nails clean after using the toilet. This will help protect and others. To kill the best protection against gastroenteritis and advice.

Frequently asked questions about stomach flu

How long does the stomach flu last?

Gastroenteritis typically lasts up to 5 days in most cases. But the advice of a doctor if you are over the duration of symptoms of gastro-intestinal troubles.

What is the scientific name for the stomach flu?

The scientific name for the stomach flu and stomach flu

As the impact to avoid the symptoms of the stomach in the beginning?

Eating foods cooked at home, and rest and avoid alcohol, caffeine or other substances which weaken the body's natural defense mechanisms.

Prevention is possible with gastroenteritis

Sharing drinks, food and utensils with other people for advice remains solid to avoid when he tried to avoid cross-contamination with other people with the stomach flu. Gastroenteritis is contagious and in most cases there are in fact in many places. However, the virus is innate, is looking for a person to infect others.

Flows of dubious nature and should always be taken that reduce the risk of reducing the symptoms of gastro-intestinal. Perfect quality advice to eat home-cooked meals with fresh vegetables and organic meat.

Avoid areas with the risk of contaminated food and water is ideal, to avoid contaminating food with the virus reaches your digestion. If the full impact of gastroenteritis stomach virus to arrive.

Recommendations for fluids to prevent dehydration, if under the stomach flu

Hydration helps the effects of the flu virus in the stomach. Keep the important minerals in the body is a perfect way to make your body work as it should help when suffering from gastroenteritis. A simple way to solve home of one teaspoon of sugar with one teaspoon of salt in a quart of warm water mixed. This fluid helps to maintain effective levels of minerals than normal, when participants to a stomach virus. The best advice is to drink to enjoy more than two hours.

Or store products such as Gatorade to replace lost minerals and can be used to replace the body, while suffering from diarrhea. Electrolyte sports drinks are a good basic tips on how to stay hydrated when under the flu, diarrhea and dehydration.

Methods to Treat Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T23:08:00.000-07:00

Gastroenteritis is caused by different viruses that affect the intestines. It is also known as viral gastroenteritis, the virus because the virus can not be cured with antibiotics. People can catch the virus through close contact with other infected people sharing their food and drinks.

directions

* Natural Remedies

bananas

Eat lots of bananas can help calm the stomach and diarrhea.

apples

These properties help heal the intestinal mucosa

Fleas are one of the remedies for stomach flu more available, and one of the tastiest and most appetizing

cayenne pepper

Pepper helps the stomach to produce hydrochloric acid, which helps the digestive system to work effectively, and tissues of the stomach and intestines to rebuild the peristaltic action.

garlic

This is a natural antibiotic that protects the flora of bacteria in the gut. It also eliminates the pathogens that cause gastroenteritis.

lemon

This eliminates the pathogens that cause gastroenteritis. Drink a glass of lemon juice diluted in water.

Ginger / Tea

Ginger eaten alone or as a tea to help calm the stomach. If you have diarrhea, also helps to reduce this symptom.

Drinking water

Drink plenty of water with a teaspoon of baking soda. These relieve heartburn, acid.

Stomach Flu Eat to Get Over

2011-07-29T23:05:00.000-07:00

If you have a viral gastroenteritis, commonly known as indigestion or stomach flu, then you have a disease in which a virus attacks the gastrointestinal tract. While the two main symptoms of gastro-intestinal tract are vomiting and diarrhea, the first question many people ask the doctor what to eat when the stomach flu.

Depending on the severity of the case, can be difficult to keep the food at all, and you may be able to digest. But some foods work better than others. Foods that are easy to use system has the best chance to be with you. These include apples, bananas, eggs, sweets, biscuits and toast. For the most part, make sure to stay away from acidic foods, spicy or fatty foods. Avoid high-fiber vegetables. Cereals and meat of the course should also be avoided, such as dairy products.

If you have a stomach flu, it is very important to get fluids in the system. To reduce levels of vomiting and diarrhea, fluid, and if the media are not properly maintained, can suffer from dehydration. Dehydration is particularly dangerous for young and very old. Acute dehydration can be fatal. So remember, drink small amounts of clear liquids. Water is best, but other clear liquids are acceptable. Weak tea and apple juice are also possible. Soft drinks are OK, as long as you let go of the drink flat. Avoid acidic drinks like orange juice and caffeinated drinks, coffee, and content. Avoid milk because of diarrhea. Cold liquid seems easier to keep warm.

Stick with small sips of liquids frequently. Adequate fluid intake is important, but drinking too fast or too little can lead to more vomiting.

Talk to your doctor before taking NSAIDs, aspirin, ibuprofen, or others. Remember, antibiotics have no effect on viruses, so antibiotics will not, unless prescribed by your doctor. There are a number of non-prescription anti-diarrhea medicines in pharmacies and supermarkets that can help. Take only the recommended dose.

If the symptoms go away, you can carefully consider your normal diet.

Gastroenteritis is one thing that usually works its way in a few days, although some viruses can remain sick for a week or two. And the rest are the best of care. The stomach flu is likely to help overcome eating with minimal disruption.

Stomach Flu Natural Home Remedies

2011-07-29T23:02:00.000-07:00

Stay in your bathroom
They have recently been visiting the bathroom due to diarrhea, which is about to leave the tissue paper? You have vomiting after a few days, now they are the starting point for concern about what he does? If you answered yes to both questions. You probably have a stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis) who really do not think an impact, since most people tend. You'll know why after this intersection, even before reading this part I want you to know that if you have a headache, chills, fever or abdominal pain, then you should have more reasons or evidence to believe that you give is actually suffering from viral gastroenteritis. Do not worry, this center will be to get some basic information about your state (where in the world do you do that?) What is the easiest to learn and a remedy for stomach flu.
Where did you get?
Stomach flu virus is different, the cells of the small intestine caused damage. If this happens, the liquid starts from cells in the intestine, which leak a watery diarrhea (which explains their recent trips to the bathroom) produced. The four types of viruses that cause stomach flu, are:

    * Rotavirus - common cause of diarrhea in children under 5 years. It is also the leading cause among children 3 to 15 months.
    * Adenovirus - usually occurs in children younger than 2 years.
    Calicivirus * - This virus causes infections in people of all ages.
    * Astrovirus Virus infects more active during the winter months and especially children and the elderly.
Before trying any home remedies for stomach flu, you know your condition you need very contagious, so do not share cutlery clean water, food or feed your family if you do not want competition in the toilet. It is also possible that a person is infected without symptoms, but unknowingly spread the infection. Before I forget, the reason for the "stomach flu" (viral gastroenteritis) is not really a "flu" is because it is not caused by influenza virus, which is what a real impact.
Cure for stomach flu
First you should know that you should not rely on home remedies for stomach flu, when you have diarrhea with blood because of the flu can cause gastrointestinal bleeding. It is also recommened to consult a doctor if you have high fever and persistent, especially if the fever over 101 degrees and is stable for more than three days.
In most cases of stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis), which heals by itself without specific treatment. Not even attempt to antibiotics without medical advice because they are not really effective against viral infections, but try the following natural for the stomach flu.

    * Get plenty of rest, especially if you throw up, try not to eat or drink for four hours.
    * Do not leave your device gastrointetinal relax, eat for a few hours
    Try small amounts of clear liquids or suck on ice cubes can also drink, if the vomiting continues to give you problems.
    * Give your child oral rehydration solutions to replace lost electrolytes and fluids, allows adults to drink Gatorade to try.
    * Reintroduction of food "rather easy to digest foods such as soup, bread, bananas, apples and rice.
    * Stay away from dairy products, alcohol and caffeine.
If you take medication for stomach flu, which are not included in this hub of knowledge, please let us know by your comments!

Treatment for Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T22:45:00.001-07:00

Although it sometimes carries a similar name, the stomach flu is not caused by the same germs as the flu and doesn’t cause the same symptoms. The medical term for the condition is actually gastroenteritis which essentially means an inflammation or irritation of the gastro-intestinal tract. The treatments for gastroenteritis will be significantly different than the treatment for influenza, or the seasonal flu.

Any treatment protocols which you may try for the stomach flu must be based on the underlying cause of the year irritation, diarrhea and possible vomiting. In some cases gastroenteritis is caused by an allergic reaction to a specific type of food. In other cases there are stomach viruses that cause the symptoms, parasites and sometimes even bacteria.

If the gastroenteritis is caused by an underlying allergic reaction to a specific type of food than removal of that food and time for the gastrointestinal tract to rest will often be enough treatment. Gastroenteritis or the stomach flu that is caused by viruses do not have any known cures and the treatment goals are focused on providing supportive care while the body fights the stomach flu. Fortunately, most people with a healthy immune system are able to effectively kill the virus after only one to 10 days.

Gastroenteritis which is caused by an invading parasite is treated by the removal of the parasite from the gastrointestinal system. Many times this particular conditions appears to be the same as other gastroenteritis symptoms and it may take close to two weeks in order to be fully diagnosed and an appropriate treatment protocol recommended.

It is the side effects of gastroenteritis, or the stomach flu, which can cause significant damage to the body. Primarily, it is the dehydration caused by an inability to keep fluids in the body because of vomiting and diarrhea. This is especially dangerous in young children, the elderly and people who have already weakened immune systems. Maintaining hydration is the most important aspect of treating viral gastroenteritis to prevent severe loss of fluids.

Individuals who are suffering from the stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, can begin treatment at home. And if the body responds quickly, there is no further need to see your primary care physician. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that families who have infants and young children keep a supply of oral rehydration solution at home at all times. Any medications, including antibiotics, should be avoided unless they are specifically recommended by your physician.

If the symptoms of the gastroenteritis are primarily diarrhea, it is very important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Adults and children can use oral rehydration fluids (sold at the pharmacy), juice or water. Sports drinks do not replace the nutrients in minerals that are lost during an illness so don’t rely on them.

You can help to settle the gastrointestinal tract by allowing it to rest and not eating for several hours. If vomiting is an issue, then sip on very small amounts of clear liquids or suck on an ice chip to help with dehydration. These small amounts of fluid can be absorbed more quickly and are less likely to upset the stomach.

Once vomiting has stopped for at least four hours you can gradually reintroduce food. Start with very bland foods that follow the BRAT diet. These are banana, rice, apples and toast with some bland chicken broth. Avoid any dairy products, caffeine and alcohol as well is getting plenty of rest until the recovery is complete.

If vomiting goes on for more than 12 hours, the individual stops urinating or the individual vomits more than five or six times in a couple of hours it is important to seek the advice of your primary care physician. Nausea and vomiting is often triggered from a center in the brain and not directly from the stomach itself. A feedback loop can sometimes be set up, which is recurrent, and even when the virus has completely been cleared from the body, the individual can continue to vomit. Physicians have medications which can be used in order to calm the brain and stop that feedback loop.

Symptoms of dehydration are excessive thirst, dry mouth, dark yellow urine or no urine at all, severe weakness or lethargy and dizziness or lightheadedness. These are all signs and symptoms that an individual should be treated in an emergency room. Dehydration is a symptom of a lack of fluid in the body which is vitally important to maintain life. Your physician may recommends hospitalization for a short time in order to replace fluids through an intravenous line and stop the feedback loop that is causing the nausea and vomiting.

How to Get Rid of Stomach Flu?

2011-07-29T22:43:00.001-07:00

From time to time, everyone suffers from stomach flu or symptoms similar to those of stomach flu. It may seem the only way to get rid of stomach flu is to make the person more comfortable and wait for it to go away. But there are a few simple things you can do to treat the symptoms. These may also help you speed up the healing process.

Comfort First

While it may appear to be too simple, drinking plenty of water can definitely help a person with stomach flu. One of the effects of stomach flu is dehydration. It’s important to replace those lost fluids by drinking plenty of water. In addition, drinking water may help reduce the acidity of the stomach.

People also use herbal tea to lessen the effects of stomach flu. Others have tried apple-cider vinegar, though the taste may be too much for some people. Cranberry juice might work for some, especially if it is 100 percent cranberry juice and not a mixture. In addition to these simple treatments you may want to try eating bananas or blueberries, or some basic soup to help replace lost body fluids and provide nourishment.

Rest and Retail

Stomach FluIt’s important to rest and relax with stomach flu, in addition to drinking plenty of water and clear liquids. You may also want to try an over-the-counter remedy like Pepto Bismol or a commercial pain killer that contains acetaminophen as the active ingredient. It’s best to be careful with pain killers however because some may contribute to stomach upset when taken in larger quantities.

While water and juices are important treatments for stomach flu, you may also want to try commercial drinks that supply extra electrolytes the body needs. Talk with your doctor or a knowledgeable person at the retail store about this type of drink.

In addition to these self-help steps it may be necessary to consult with your doctor. It may be tempting to treat stomach flu on your own and avoid a visit to the doctor, but stomach problems shouldn’t be taken lightly. A medical professional may find that the stomach condition is caused by bacteria. In this case, prescription antibiotics may be in order.

Proper Diet

It’s also important to eat small meals that consist of rather basic food items such as rice, oatmeal porridge, crackers etc. A person with stomach flu should never eat spicy or greasy foods. When stomach flu is the problem it’s best not to eat large meals two or three times per day. Instead, try some of those basic foods and eat half a dozen small meals during the day.

Finally, it’s important not to take too many different over-the-counter medicines and remedies without consulting with a doctor. Of course you should read the directions on the packaging carefully when using home and retail remedies. Avoid contact with other family members unless absolutely necessary because stomach flu can be contagious. Be patient and be gentle with stomach flu.

Cure Stomach Flu Quickly & Easily

2011-07-29T22:42:00.000-07:00

The treatment of influenza stomach may be in the form of allopathic, homeopathic and herbal remedies. In general it was found that the allopathic treatment for the side effects of other causes stomach flu, and most people prefer herbal treatment of stomach flu.

One of the methods as herbal remedy for stomach flu with a mixture of garlic juice, olive oil and onions with honey used. This solution is considered as one of the healing of stomach flu. It seems that this method is effective for an individual as a remedy for stomach flu. Remedy for stomach flu in the form of ginger tea is considered most effective for most people. Prepare a ginger tea is very simple. Boil water in a bowl of ginger and bring to a boil and hold for 10 minutes. Let cool and then the contents of the spray. Add a little 'honey' to drink the solution. This method is a better remedy for stomach flu has been found.

In a bowl with water, add the rose hips, which recently bought some sage leaves and add content to the bowl. Add some 'mint leaves in it. The amount of sage leaves, wild rose and mint in the bowl should be the same. Cook the mixture, add a teaspoon of black pepper. Treatment of stomach flu can be produced by drinking the solution can be obtained as described above. This proved to be a good remedy for stomach flu.

Among the herbs is known that garlic has many medicinal properties. And "anti-bacterial and anti-viral in nature. If you can eat, try a clove of raw garlic to eat. This can serve as a remedy for stomach flu. A person who has stomach flu may have felt discomfort when the flu. In order to alleviate the discomfort caused by stomach flu are caused by the patient, and bath oil by mixing cinnamon in water. They illuminate the patient's room painful. medicinal herbs for the stomach flu is to that the majority of patients because it is inconsistent with the side effects of conventional drugs.

A few drops of thyme in boiling water and put your face closer to the bowl and cover your head with a towel. Inhalation of vapors from the tank. This would serve as a remedy to the cold than the influence of the patient. Most patients who have an influence on them cold. This method is effective to alleviate complaints heard from the cold, the flu. Switch to the method of healing herbs for the stomach flu is the most popular.

How to Cope With Stomach Flu Symptoms

2011-07-29T22:39:00.001-07:00

If you get the stomach flu (also known as viral gastroenteritis), there are a number of things you can do to cope with the illness, an expert suggests.

“This virus causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and head and muscle aches. Although the virus itself most often is not a serious health threat, it can cause serious complications like dehydration, which can be especially dangerous for young children and older adults,” Dr. Christopher Zipp, a family physician at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey’s School of Osteopathic Medicine, said in a university news release.

Zipp offered the following tips for coping with stomach flu:

    * Avoid dehydration by consuming plenty of fluids. The best choices are water or half-strength juices. It’s best to avoid sodas or sports drinks, but they can be given to people who can’t tolerate the recommended fluids.
    * Relieve body aches and fever by taking over-the-counter, non-aspirin pain relievers such as acetaminophen, as directed.
    * Rest as much as possible.
    * Take steps to prevent spread of the virus. Throw away used tissues immediately and wash your hands often. Soiled bed linens or clothes should be washed separately from other laundry.
    * Make sure you’re fully recovered before heading back to work or school. People with the stomach flu can still be contagious for up to 72 hours after they feel better.

“Keep in mind that this illness is caused by a virus. Antibiotics, which work against bacterial infections, will not help you to recover,” Zipp explained.

“Most people will begin to feel better after a couple of days, but don’t hesitate to contact your physician if you or a family member experiences extreme symptoms, such as uncontrolled vomiting or a high fever that persists and does not respond to over-the-counter medications,” he added.

Stomach Flu Home Remedies

2011-07-29T22:38:00.000-07:00

Home remedy for stomach flu orient to give relief to the patient from the stomach related problems. Invariably due to the pathogenesis, patient will be in tired conditions and will be in need of supplementing fluids. Sport drinks or specific electrolyte drinks may be given. It is said that though the patient may have vomiting, the given fluid gets absorbed. Mostly, sodium and chloride are provided in fluids given as the home remedy for stomach flu.

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Medicines used for treating the common stomach virus are often already in your refrigerator, pantry or spice rack. Incorporating some of these fruits, herbs and spices into the diet on a regular basis act as a preventative or lessen the impact of this type of infection as well.

coca cola and gingerale, helps with the nausea, but nothing much for a stomach flu, just need to let it run its course.

You can take tylenol for your aches but no ibuprofen or other nsaid they can irritate your stomach worse.

Once vomiting and nausea stops gradually you can start eating solid foods. But make sure that solid foods should easy to digest and plain. The best choice should be among rice, breads, cereals, wheat, potatoes, lean meat and chicken.

On an empty stomach drink a cup of caraway tea thrice in a day. In a cup take 1 tsp of caraway seeds and add 1 cup of boiling water. Cover the cup and allow it to stand for 10 minutes, strain it and caraway tea is ready for drinking.

Pain in the belly (abdomen) can come from conditions affecting a variety of organs. The abdomen is an anatomical area that is bounded by the lower margin of the ribs above, the pelvic bone (pubic ramus) below, and the flanks on each side.

Eat apples, particularly applesauce or baked. In cases of the stomach flu apples have healing properties on the intestinal mucosa.

Garlic's essence is an effective antibiotic, acting on the pathogens that cause stomach flu. However, in contrast to medical antibiotics, it protects the natural bacterial flora in the intestine.

Fluids

As you can see from the above, clear fluids are your best ally while you have stomach-flu symptoms. They usually include water, weak tea, soda pop, fruit gelatin and later apple juice and fat-free chicken broth. Those treating stomach flu tend to argue over whether soda should be bubbly or flat. In small quantities, either would likely be fine. Coffee is technically a clear liquid but can produce other irritants.

Pour 1 cup of boiling water to 1 teaspoon of Marjoram, wait for 5-10 minutes and drink. Repeat 3 times daily.

Blanch salvia/ lemon grass, add honey, wait 3 minutes and drink.

Stomach Flu : Home and Herbal Remedies

2011-07-29T22:36:00.000-07:00

Stomach Flu, is an intestinal infection, which is caused by several viruses. Stomach Flu, also known as Viral Gastroenteritis, affects millions every year, though most recover without any complications.

Symptoms – Major symptoms include vomiting and watery stools. However, it could sometimes, be accompanied by abdominal pain, headache, chills or fever. The symptoms are likely to disappear within two days or could last for even ten days.

Indigestion and stress could also lead to stomach upset. A few natural home remedies include:

• Bananas are actually known to soothe stomach, as they neutralize the acids that actually lead to stomach upset. Hence they are known to soothe diarrhea.

• Drinking Ginger tea or just chewing a piece of ginger can relieve symptoms of stomach upset. As they are easily digestible, it also helps in easing diarrhea.

• Drinking Peppermint tea helps in calming the stomach muscles.

• Drink half a glass of water to which half a teaspoon of baking soda is added. This relieves the heartburn or acid indigestion. This can be repeated several times a day.

• Avoid foods such as cauliflower, fried foods, onions, coffee, baked beans etc.

In case, the stomach persists or is more severe, a consultation with a medical professional is recommended.

Guidelines for Treating Stomach Flu in Babies

2011-07-29T22:34:00.001-07:00

Q: My son is 11 months old and recently had the stomach flu. He vomited and had diarrhea for four days. His formula made the diarrhea worse. I switched to Pedialyte and it got a little better. He's fine now. What should I do if he gets this again? Is it better to give him just Pedialyte and no formula since he is eating solids? Or should I continue giving him formula even though it makes the diarrhea worse?

A: You need to replace the lost body fluids when a baby is sick with a stomach flu. Fever, vomiting or diarrhea can cause severe dehydration if not treated.

A stomach flu just has to run its course. That means there is no treatment for it. The most important thing parents should do is keep the child hydrated.

Giving your baby oral electrolyte drinks, such as Pedialyte, is fine. Plain water is not good enough. If formula or regular food makes your baby's symptoms worse, it's okay to give your baby just Pedialyte until his stomach is more settled.

Gradually bring formula or other foods back into his diet. It may seem to make it a bit worse at first, but do not worry. As long as the baby is getting more in than he is losing, that's fine.

Try to get your baby back to his normal diet as soon as possible. A normal diet provides all the nutrients to help fight the virus that caused the stomach flu and make the infection go away more quickly.

The most common symptoms of the stomach flu are vomiting and diarrhea. You may also see belly pain, fever, or headache.

The stomach flu can be caused by many different viruses. The virus can pass easily between people or from contaminated food. Because the stomach flu is highly contagious, always practice good hand washing, especially when someone in your home has it.

Stomach Flu Pictures Part1

2011-07-29T22:33:00.000-07:00

Stomach Flu Pictures

What Is the Stomach Flu?

2011-07-29T22:30:00.000-07:00

The stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, is the second most common illness in the United States. It is actually not related to the flu at all. It is usually caused by a virus that attacks the intestinal tract and causes swelling and discomfort. It can also be caused by spoiled or contaminated food, a side effect of a medication, or other more serious illnesses.

Symptoms of the stomach flu include:

    * Vomiting
    * Diarrhea
    * Fever
    * Nausea
    * Abdominal Pain
    * Fatigue or tiredness

Stomach Flu Treatment

No treatment is usually necessary for the stomach flu, but occasionally people will become dehydrated from the amount of vomiting and diarrhea.

Infants, children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are most likely to suffer from dehydration when they have these symptoms. Depending on the severity of the dehydration, a combination of therapies may be needed. A couple of medications ARE available by prescription that can help stop or decrease the vomiting. If a person is already severely dehydrated, he may need to receive IV fluids to help get rehydrated.

When you are vomiting, you should not try to eat or drink anything right away. Letting the stomach rest for about 15 minutes is usually helpful. Then trying small sips of water or an electrolyte drink (such as Pedialyte or Gatorade) every 5 to 10 minutes will help ensure that the stomach is not overloaded and induce vomiting again. If small sips are tolerated, you can then slowly increase the amount you are drinking.

After taking nothing but fluids for several hours, you can advance the diet to bland foods such as crackers, toast and rice. This is the best diet as long as you are still having symptoms of the stomach flu. It is important to avoid greasy and spicy foods because they will only make the symptoms worse. Also, children should avoid drinking fruit juices and sodas when they have diarrhea or are vomiting because they will also make the symptoms worse.

If you or your child have a fever with the stomach flu, Tylenol or acetaminophen is the best way to treat the fever unless you have liver problems. Other fever reducers can be harder on the stomach and children under 18 should never be given aspirin.

Most episodes of stomach flu do not require medical treatment and will go away on their own within a couple of days. However, some symptoms could indicate an illness other than the stomach flu for which you should seek medical attention right away. These include:

    * Vomiting blood
    * Large amounts of blood or mucous in the stool
    * Confusion
    * Lightheadedness or fainting when standing
    * Severe abdominal pain
    * A child who is unusually sleepy or difficult to wake up
    * Accompanied by a fever > 101 F (call your doctor)
    * Dehydration
    * Persistent vomiting lasting 2 days or longer

Stomach Flu Prevention

Preventing the stomach flu is difficult because it is very contagious. The best way to prevent it is by good handwashing. You should also avoid sharing drinks and eating utensils with someone who is sick. Since many people in many different places can have gastroenteritis, it is easy to pick up anywhere. These tips should help you stay healthy and avoid those nasty symptoms.

Stomach Flu: What Parent Should Know

2011-07-29T22:28:00.000-07:00

I decided to write this article because my daughter came down with the stomach flu the other day. Two days later my son started showing signs of the stomach flu and two days after he recovered my wife started showing signs.

Here are some things that you as a parent should know about the stomach flu.

Stomach Flu is not the Flu

First the Stomach flu, medically known as Gastroenteritis is not the same thing as the Flu known medically as influenza. This means that even if you had your flu shots which help to prevent you from getting the influenza virus you are not protected from getting the Stomach Flu.

What causes the stomach flu?

The stomach flu that hits in the winter time is caused by the Norwalk virus. This is one of many viruses that causes Gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis is a general term that refers to vomiting and diarrhea. The thing that makes the stomach flu (Norwalk virus) different from other forms of Gastroenteritis is that its mostly vomiting and without diarrhea, and that it hits primarily in the winter.

How contagious is it?

The next important fact about the Norwalk virus is that it is extremely contagious. If one family member has it then chances are very high that other family members will get it.

The virus is transmitted person to person. This means that if you have it you could easily pass it to your child either by kissing them or holding their hands and then by them touching their hands to their mouths.

According to the Merck manual, it could take anywhere between 4 hours to 72 hours until the symptoms appear.

For how long is someone contagious?

Once you have the symptoms you become contagious for up to 72 hours. The minimum amount of time that you are contagious after you stop having symptoms, i.e. vomiting, is 24 hours. That means that if you vomited at night but feel great the next day you are still contagious and you can easily pass on the virus to others.

This part is really important for parents. If your child got the virus and finished her vomiting episodes at 11pm, she is still contagious for the next 24 hours. That means that even if she feels fine you should not send her to school the next morning. She should stay at home and go to school the following day.

How do I know when my child’s symptoms have stopped?

In my experiences, there are anywhere between two to five episodes of vomiting with about an hour in between each episode. If you child has already vomited three times over the course of three hours and several hours have passed since the last episode then chances are your child’s has stopped vomiting and the worst is over.

Are there any other concerns or health issues that I should be aware of?

Dehydration is the most serious complication that results from the stomach flu because of the loss of so much fluids. Because children are at much higher risk of suffering from dehydration than adults, parents need to make sure that their child has constant fluid intake.

What should my child drink?

The best thing for your child would be a drink that contains the right balance of salt and sugar to replace the loss of essential elements needed for the body to function properly. Electrolyte beverages such as Pedialyte, Gatorade, or Powerade will provide these elements. There is actually a difference of opinion between the Merck manual and the Mayo Clinic. The Merck Manual says to avoid sport drinks whereas the Mayo Clinic actually recommends them. I have heard from a couple of doctors that sports drinks are good for children to drink.

Believe it or not, Kool-Aid is a good alternative if you don’t have any of those beverages readily available. This is because unlike water Kool-Aid contains both sugar and salt ingredients. Just make sure to dilute it a bit so that its not at its usual level of sweetness. Water, on the other hand, is not the best drink of choice because it lacks essential elements. Of course its better than giving your child nothing. If you do give your child water have him/her drink small sips at a time instead of large gulps. Consuming large amounts of water at a time can lead to more nausea.

Some drinks to avoid:

Carbonated beverages
Tea
Fruit Juice

What can my child eat?

Once your child has overcome the vomiting you can start feeding him/her foods that are easier for their stomach to tolerate. Follow this mnemonic to help you remember what they can eat:
B - bananas
R - rice
A - applesauce
T - toast

How to avoid spreading the virus

Whenever you come in contact with someone infected with the Norwalk virus you should wash you hands with anti-bacterial soap creating a nice lather for fifteen seconds. Another option would be to have Purell or similar product in the house so that you can just squirt on your hands and rub until it dries.

Stomach flu in babies

2011-07-29T22:26:00.000-07:00

What is the stomach flu or gastroenteritis?

Stomach flu (also called gastroenteritis or 'D and V' for diarrhoea and vomiting) is a general term for a host of infections that can cause symptoms like:

    * abdominal pain
    * diarrhoea
    * vomiting,
    * fever
    * chills and aches

Most babies and toddlers get an upset stomach, on average thrice a year. This may cause mild diarrhoea and vomiting. It usually only lasts 24-48 hours and is not often a cause for concern. With plenty of fluids and some tender loving care, most babies are soon back to normal.

What causes the stomach flu or gastroenteritis in babies?

A virus is most often the culprit, the most common being the Rotavirus. In other cases, the cause may be a form of food poisoning bacteria, such as Salmonella, Shigella, Staphylococcus, Campylobacter, or E. coli. Parasites such as Giardia may also cause gastroenteritis.

Symptoms usually appear within four to 48 hours of exposure and usually last for a day or two. In severe cases, they can go on for up to seven days. Exclusively breastfed babies are less likely to get an upset stomach than babies on formula milk or babies who are on solid foods. Even breastfed babies, if sensitive, can react to spicy foods, excess nicotine, caffeine, chocolates, or food additives in the breast milk. This may result in loose motions but it doesn't usually cause vomiting. Some medications like antibiotics can also cause diarrhoea.

How should I treat my baby's stomach flu?

Fluids are the key to treating an upset stomach. If your baby has diarrhoea and is throwing up, there is a risk that she will get dehydrated. As long as she stays hydrated, she will be able to fight the infection. So give her sips of water, and if she is breastfed, let her feed every so often so she gets plenty of the watery foremilk. Your breastmilk contains antibodies which will help her fight the infection.

When should I call the doctor if my baby has gastroenteritis?

Always call your paediatrician if you suspect that your baby is unwell, especially if your child is under 6 months. If your baby is vomiting a lot and has diarrhoea as well, the doctor may suggest giving her ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution), in small sips throughout the day so that she stays hydrated. Your doctor will be able to tell you how much she should be drinking based on her age and weight. If your doctor is concerned about the level of dehydration, your baby may be admitted to hospital and put on a drip for a few hours to rehydrate her.

See your doctor immediately if your child:

    * becomes dehydrated
    * has a fever higher than 101 degrees F
    * is vomiting more than 5 times in a day
    * has blood in her stool
    * has a swollen, hard belly

Signs of dehydration include:

    * dry diapers (she should have 6 wet ones a day)
    * excessive sleepiness or fussiness
    * wrinkled skin, sunken eyes
    * a sinking soft spot
    * dry lips, crying without tears
    * cool, discoloured hands and feet

What can I do to prevent the stomach flu in my baby?

Washing your hands frequently brings down the risk of passing on germs to your baby. Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water before feeding your baby and after:

    * using the bathroom
    * gardening
    * handling leafy/root vegetables
    * handling uncooked meat
    * handling pets
    * changing diapers or
    * helping older children in the toilet

Make it a rule that older siblings wash their hands well before playing with the baby and her toys, or touching her bottles or feeding items. Once babies can sit up and crawl, they can pick things up from the floor. They are then exposed to all sorts of germs and bugs. Thankfully around this time, your baby's immune system begins to mature as well. Nature is clever that way! You could make sure that:

    * Your baby plays on a clean floor.
    * Her toys are clean.
    * Shoes, slippers and pet dishes are out of her reach.
    * Her hands are washed regularly, especially before every meal.

If you have a maid looking after your baby, ensure that she follows basic hygiene. She should bathe every day, keep her nails trimmed, and wash her hands before holding your baby as well as every time she uses the bathroom.

Keep your baby's utensils, cups, glasses, bowls, and other items separate. Avoid sharing food and personal items like towels, clothes or handkerchiefs, especially if someone in the family is down with the bug.

Make sure your drinking water is boiled or filtered. If you are preparing supplementary feeds, make sure the water used has been boiled and then cooled, and stored properly. Ensure that boiled, cooled water is stored in airtight containers to prevent contamination. As a rule, only glass or food grade quality plastic containers should be used for storing water. Make sure these containers are washed regularly and that safe food preparation and cooking practices are followed. If you have pets in the house, make sure they are trained not to litter the house. If your pet is unwell or has diarrhoea, make sure you keep him away from your baby's room. Do not let your pet climb on your baby's cot and keep your baby's things out of your pet's reach.

Stomach Flu: Care for Stomach Bugs

2011-07-29T22:24:00.000-07:00

When to worry, when not to worry? What to do, what not to do? These questions plague parents of sick children, particularly when the culprit is a stomach bug that can quickly dehydrate a child.

Besides the drawings, clay works, and other crafts that Jimmy brings home from his nursery school, you should also expect him to bring back a few stomach bugs. Rampant in day-care centers, especially in the spring and fall, stomach bugs are viral infections of the intestine that cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In children, a bug typically starts with a sudden onset of vomiting, possibly followed by diarrhea. Fever, either high or low, may also be present. Bacteria or parasites can also be responsible for stomach bugs, although less frequently than viruses, and they can produce even more severe symptoms. The main concern with all types of stomach bugs is loss of fluid to vomiting or diarrhea. Younger children especially can become dehydrated very quickly (see below for tips on how to prevent or cure its ill effects).

As far as how your darling might pick up these bugs, let's just say that in medical terms it goes by the poetic name of feco-oral or oro-fecal transmission.

Vomiting from a Stomach Virus

Vomiting can be quite violent, especially at the onset of the illness. At first, food comes out, but soon there is no more food, only a thin green bile. In general, vomiting won't last for more than twenty-four hours, especially if the fluid is replaced. Even more than diarrhea, vomiting can cause dehydration.

< 6 Months

Infants

Stomach viruses are rare in infants, since tiny tots don't attend nursery school, but when a virus does strike (possibly brought home by an older sibling), vigilance is the key. An infant, especially a young one, can become very dehydrated after just a few hours of vomiting. Keep in mind that other causes of vomiting, such as blockage of the intestine, may be mistaken for a stomach virus.

If Lucy suddenly vomits on more than one occasion (and if it's real vomiting instead of just a little spitting up), you should continue to feed her breast milk or formula in small amounts, and call your doctor for advice.

> 6 Months

Children

With older kids, vomiting can usually be handled at home with simple measures. The goal is to prevent dehydration in the first twenty-four hours by replacing fluids. If you manage to replenish the liquids he's losing, Jimmy's body will do the rest and build its defenses to banish the viral intruder.

When To Worry

    * If the vomiting persists for more than twenty-four hours, especially if it remains intense.
    * If the tiniest amount of fluid makes Jimmy vomit.
    * If there are signs of dehydration. If Jimmy becomes dehydrated, he'll appear tired and pale. His eyes will barely stay open, and he'll produce very little urine. These signs indicate that oral rehydration isn't working. You should go to the doctor's office or the hospital so Jimmy can receive intravenous fluids.

When Not To Worry

    * If Jimmy remains active.
    * If the vomiting recurs once or twice after subsiding for a day or two. This may indicate that you have been too quick to reintroduce foods that are a little tough on the tummy, such as pizza, despite Jimmy's encouraging cravings.

What To Do

    * Give Jimmy the tiniest amount of liquid he will tolerate without vomiting, but give it almost continuously until the vomiting has settled. Use an eyedropper if you have to, and go sloooowly. Too much volume will distend and irritate the intestine, and that will trigger more vomiting.
    * As far as the type of liquid, you can use any soft drink (cola, ginger ale, sports drink) diluted by half with water and served at room temperature. Commercial rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte are expensive and not really any more effective than sodas at preventing dehydration.
    * For baby Lucy, you can use small quantities of breast milk or formula diluted with twice as much water. If she vomits more than a couple of times, switch her to clear fluids, just, as you would an older child.
    * Give only fluid until at least six hours after the vomiting ends. You can then start reintroducing very bland solid foods, such as crackers or dry cereal. Again, go very slowly. If Jimmy tolerates food, you can creep back toward a regular diet. If at any time vomiting begins again, go back to the fluid replacement as explained above.

What Not To Do

    * Don't use plain water. You need to replace minerals, salts, and sugars, along with the water.
    * Don't reintroduce solid foods too quickly.
    * Don't give cow's milk or full-strength formula until the vomiting has subsided.
    * Don't use antivomiting suppositories. They're inefficient and potentially dangerous.

In most cases, vomiting will last for a day or so and then subside. It could be followed by diarrhea, which entails another set of problems

Diarrhea from a Stomach Virus

Diarrhea may follow vomiting or appear on its own. It can vary from a few loose stools to very watery stools.

< 6 Months

Infants

Diarrhea is hard to define here, since young infants can normally have up to ten very runny poops per day. A greater frequency than that could represent diarrhea, especially if the constituency is very runny. Since the very young are at greater risk of dehydration, offer small amounts of breast milk or formula, and call your doctor for advice.

> 6 Months

Children

Diarrhea following a stomach virus is messy but usually not serious, though you may be surprised by how long the loose stools persist. Diaper rash is the most common inconvenience. Compared to vomiting, diarrhea rarely causes worrisome dehydration, but there's still a risk.

When To Worry

    * If there's blood or mucus in the diarrhea
    * If the diarrhea is extremely frequent (more than eight times daily)
    * If there are signs of dehydration [See:Above]
    * If there is a persistent high fever (over 102*F)

Any of these symptoms could indicate a more virulent bacterial infection or viral strain, which would require medical attention.

When Not To Worry

When the diarrhea lasts. This is more the rule than the exception. It can take up to a month after a stomach virus for the stools to return to a normal consistency. This does not mean that the virus is still present; rather, it takes time for the intestine to heal and be able to reabsorb water. Stool analysis or cultures have no benefits, since the infection is gone. Just have patience.

What To Do

    * Feed Jimmy whatever you would normally, but skip the citrus and acidic vegetables like tomatoes. High-bulk diets have no real value, and since it's going to last for a while, you might as well be feeding him real foods.
    * Prevent outbreaks of diaper rash with naked time when practical, and take the other preventive measures like applying cream.

For a few days after the vomiting or diarrhea, Jimmy's appetite will, usually decrease, and you may even see some of his ribs showing. It could be a while before he goes back to eating with his old enthusiasm and regains the weight he's just lost. If you pressure him to eat, you could end up with a picky eater or a child who overindulges in sweets and starches. If you don't, I promise you that this low-appetite phase will be followed by a period When he'll be voracious, wolfing down everything you put in front of him and calling for more. At that point, you'll see the spaces between his ribs fill in.

Excerpted from The New Basics by Michel Cohen, M.D. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced without written permission from HarperCollins Publishers, 10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022

Stomach Flu (Noroviruses)

2011-07-29T22:21:00.000-07:00

Even though it is called stomach "flu," noroviruses are NOT related to what we normally call the flu (or influenza), which is a respiratory illness caused by influenza virus.

What are noroviruses?

Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause the "stomach flu," or gastroenteritis (GAS-tro-en-ter-I-tis), in people. The term norovirus was recently approved as the official name for this group of viruses (CDC, 2006).

Viruses are very different from bacteria and parasites, some of which can cause illnesses similar to norovirus infection. Like all viral infections, noroviruses are not affected by treatment with antibiotics, and cannot grow outside of a person's body.

What are the symptoms of illness caused by noroviruses?

The symptoms of norovirus illness usually include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and some stomach cramping.

Sometimes people additionally have a low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a general sense of tiredness. The illness often begins suddenly, and the infected person may feel very sick. In most people the illness is self-limiting with symptoms lasting for about 1 or 2 days. In general, children experience more vomiting than adults.

How serious is norovirus disease?

People may feel very sick and vomit many times a day, but most people get better within 1 or 2 days, and they have no long-term health effects related to their illness.

However, sometimes people are unable to drink enough liquids to replace the liquids they lost because of vomiting and diarrhea.

These persons can become dehydrated and may need special medical attention. This problem with dehydration is usually only seen among the very young, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems.

How do people become infected with noroviruses?

Noroviruses are found in the stool or vomit of infected people. People can become infected with the virus in several ways, including:

    * Eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus;
    * Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus, and then placing their hand in their mouth;
    * Having direct contact with another person who is infected and showing symptoms (for example, when caring for someone with illness, or sharing foods or eating utensils with someone who is ill).

Persons working in day-care centers or nursing homes should pay special attention to children or residents who have norovirus illness. This virus is very contagious and can spread rapidly throughout such environments.

When do symptoms appear?

Symptoms of norovirus illness usually begin about 24 to 48 hours after ingestion of the virus, but they can appear as early as 12 hours after exposure.

Are noroviruses contagious?

Noroviruses are very contagious and can spread easily from person to person.

Both stool and vomit are infectious. Particular care should be taken with young children in diapers who may have diarrhea.

How long are people contagious?

People infected with norovirus are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill to at least 3 days after recovery. Some people may be contagious for as long as 2 weeks after recovery. Therefore, it is particularly important for people to use good handwashing and other hygienic practices after they have recently recovered from norovirus illness.

Who gets norovirus infection?

Anyone can become infected with these viruses. There are many different strains of norovirus, which makes it difficult for a person's body to develop long-lasting immunity. Therefore, norovirus illness can recur throughout a person's lifetime. In addition, because of differences in genetic factors, some people are more likely to become infected and develop more severe illness than others.

What treatment is available for people with norovirus infection?

Currently, there is no antiviral medication that works against norovirus and there is no vaccine to prevent infection. Norovirus infection cannot be treated with antibiotics. This is because antibiotics work to fight bacteria and not viruses.

Norovirus illness is usually brief in healthy individuals. When people are ill with vomiting and diarrhea, they should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Dehydration among young children, the elderly, the sick, can be common, and it is the most serious health effect that can result from norovirus infection. By drinking oral rehydration fluids (ORF), juice, or water, people can reduce their chance of becoming dehydrated. Sports drinks do not replace the nutrients and minerals lost during this illness.

Can norovirus infections be prevented?

You can decrease your chance of coming in contact with noroviruses by following these preventive steps:

    * Frequently wash your hands, especially after toilet visits and changing diapers and before eating or preparing food.
    * Carefully wash fruits and vegetables, and steam oysters before eating them.
    * Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness by using a bleach-based household cleaner.
    * Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated with virus after an episode of illness (use hot water and soap).
    * Flush or discard any vomitus and/or stool in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean.

Persons who are infected with norovirus should not prepare food while they have symptoms and for 3 days after they recover from their illness. Food that may have been contaminated by an ill person should be disposed of properly.

Stomach Flu Treatment

2011-07-29T22:19:00.001-07:00

People often mistakenly think that the “stomach flu”

(viral gastoenteritis) is the same as the “flu” (influenza). This isn’t true. They are completely different viruses. So don’t expect the flu shot to protect you from the stomach flu. This infection of the digestive tract is caused by a number of different viruses. It usually produces a combination of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea sometimes with abdominal pain or fever. Occasionally there are some upper respiratory symptoms but usually not.

If you are experiencing the stomach flu, in addition to our standard protocols for infections, we also recommend “activated charcoal.” This is available though any health food store and most pharmacies. For an adult we recommend two capsules with a glass of water three times a day as much as possible on an empty stomach. This charcoal treatment is also good for food poisoning. It will work best with an empty stomach. It works by absorbing the virus or toxin so the least food or beverage (except water) in the stomach around the time taking it the more effective it is likely to be.

If the person cannot swallow capsules or is vomiting everything swallowed, then the capsule can be opened up and mixed into water and sipped. It is not easy to mix it into the water but it is possible.

Charcoal is also available through our office and can be mailed.

Nanoparticle Vaccine Protects Against Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T22:17:00.000-07:00

A new vaccine strategy using nanoparticles as carriers may be the key to developing a vaccine against norovirus, one of the most common causes of foodborne disease in the United States. Researchers from the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center report promising findings in the January 2011 issue of the Journal of Virology.

The application of nanoparticles as carriers to present small peptide antigens is a growing field within vaccine development. Researchers led by Xi Jason Jiang of Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, have described a new nanocarrier, called a P particle, which holds promise as a scaffold for a variety of vaccines. In the current study they inserted rotavirus antigen into the P particle, which boosted immune response to rotavirus, as well as norovirus, in mice.

Both rotavirus and norovirus are important causes of acute gastroenteritis. The former causes severe diarrhea in children, and kills an estimated 527,000 worldwide, annually. Norovirus is a notably highly transmissible, and particularly unpleasant flu, which can result in one to three days of vomiting and diarrhea in otherwise healthy adults, and which kills 200,000 children annually.

"The dual vaccine holds promise for controlling gastroenteritis in children," says Jiang.

The P particle's unique feature is the scaffold. The P particle consists of 24 copies of an outer coat protein from norovirus. The beauty of the P particle is that it contains three types of surface loops, which are ideal for presenting a wide variety of antigens. Additionally, it is highly immunogenic and extremely stable, the latter an important quality for use in developing nations. The antigens can easily be inserted during the manufacturing process. Production is a simple matter of expressing the cloned P particle in E. coli.

In addition to the rotavirus antigen, the team has succeeded in inserting a number of antigens into the P particle, varying in size up to more than 200 amino acids. The resulting vaccines have induced significantly stronger immune responses in mice than have free antigens.

Jiang is principal investigator for a five year, $4.1 million grant from the National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Disease (NIAID) that Cincinnati Children's received last May to develop the P particle vaccine against norovirus. "With the unique features of high efficiency, easy production, and low cost, this new platform will find a broad application in the biomedical sciences," says Jiang.

How to Cope With Stomach Flu Symptoms

2011-07-29T22:16:00.000-07:00

If you get the stomach flu (also known as viral gastroenteritis), there are a number of things you can do to cope with the illness, an expert suggests.

"This virus causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and head and muscle aches. Although the virus itself most often is not a serious health threat, it can cause serious complications like dehydration, which can be especially dangerous for young children and older adults," Dr. Christopher Zipp, a family physician at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey's School of Osteopathic Medicine, said in a university news release.

Zipp offered the following tips for coping with stomach flu:

    * Avoid dehydration by consuming plenty of fluids. The best choices are water or half-strength juices. It's best to avoid sodas or sports drinks, but they can be given to people who can't tolerate the recommended fluids.
    * Relieve body aches and fever by taking over-the-counter, non-aspirin pain relievers such as acetaminophen, as directed.
    * Rest as much as possible.
    * Take steps to prevent spread of the virus. Throw away used tissues immediately and wash your hands often. Soiled bed linens or clothes should be washed separately from other laundry.
    * Make sure you're fully recovered before heading back to work or school. People with the stomach flu can still be contagious for up to 72 hours after they feel better.

"Keep in mind that this illness is caused by a virus. Antibiotics, which work against bacterial infections, will not help you to recover," Zipp explained.

"Most people will begin to feel better after a couple of days, but don't hesitate to contact your physician if you or a family member experiences extreme symptoms, such as uncontrolled vomiting or a high fever that persists and does not respond to over-the-counter medications," he added.

Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T22:14:00.000-07:00

What is stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis)?

Stomach flu is a viral infection that affects the stomach and small intestine. The illness is usually brief, lasting 1 to 3 days. Stomach flu is caused by a different virus than the Influenza viruses which affect the respiratory tract (nose, throat, and lungs). Learn about respiratory tract flu here.

How is it transmitted?

Stomach flu is caused by swallowing certain viruses. Infected people can spread the virus through their secretions, sometimes even before their symptoms begin. The virus can be spread by direct contact with an infected person (for example, kissing or shaking hands) or by sharing food, drink, or eating utensils. The virus enters the stomach and intestine and inflames the lining of these organs. As a result, the stomach and intestine are temporarily unable to perform their usual functions. The virus can also cause food to move more rapidly through your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Some bacteria and other tiny organisms called protozoa can cause infections that have symptoms similar to those of viral gastroenteritis.

What are the symptoms?

When you have stomach flu, you may have one or more of the following symptoms:

    * Fatigue
    * Chills
    * Loss of appetite
    * Nausea
    * Vomiting
    * Stomach cramps
    * Diarrhea (liquid stools)
    * Low-grade fever
    * Muscle aches

The illness may develop over a period of hours, or it may suddenly start with stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea.

How is it diagnosed?

Your medical provider will review your symptoms. She may examine you and order lab tests to rule out more serious illnesses, such as appendicitis, and to detect complications, such as dehydration. If you have been in a foreign country or environment with poor water or sanitation conditions, tests for parasites or other infections may be done.

How long does the stomach flu last?

Stomach flu rarely lasts longer than 1 to 3 days. However, it may be 1 to 2 weeks before your bowel habits return completely to normal. Contact your medical provider (Brown students can call Health Services at 401.863-3953) if:

    * You have been vomiting for more than a day
    * You have had diarrhea for over 3 days
    * You have bloody stool
    * You have a fever over 101 F (38.3 C)
    * You feel very light-headed

How is it treated?

The most important thing to do is to rest the stomach and intestines. You can do this by first eating nothing and drinking only clear liquids. A little later you can eat soft bland foods that are easy to digest. Give your stomach rest from liquids for 2 hours after vomiting. You may suck on hard candy, a Popsicle or ice chips after 2 hours. Then take small, frequent sips of liquids every 10 to 15 minutes.

Drinking too much at once, even an ounce or two, may cause more vomiting. Your choice of liquids is important. If water is the only liquid you can drink without vomiting, that is okay. However, if you have been vomiting frequently for a long time, you must replace the minerals, sodium and potassium, that are lost when you vomit. Ask your medical provider what sport drinks or medical products could help you replace these minerals. Other clear liquids you can drink are weak tea, bouillon and apple juice. You may also drink soft drinks without caffeine (such as 7up) after letting them lose some of their carbonation - go flat. Chilling the liquids may help you keep them down. Avoid liquids that are acidic (such as orange juice) or caffeinated (such as coffee) or have a lot of carbonation. Do not drink milk until you no longer have diarrhea.

Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin as these may make your symptoms worse if taken on an empty stomach. If you have fever, take 2 regular strength (325 mg each) acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 4 hours.

You may start eating bland foods when you have not vomited for several hours and are able to drink clear liquids without further upset. Soda crackers, toast, noodles, applesauce, and bananas are good first choices. Avoid foods that are acidic, spicy, fatty, or fibrous (meats, coarse grains, vegetables) and dairy products. See below for a recommended diet progression.

Sometimes treatment includes prescription medicine to prevent nausea and vomiting or diarrhea. Nonprescription medicine, such as floperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol), is available for the treatment of diarrhea and can be very effective. If you use it, make sure you use the dose recommended on the package. Pepto-Bismol can turn tongue and stools black - a harmless and transient side effect. Imodium will not cure the diarrhea. It acts as a chemical cork while the diarrheal process (water loss from the body into the intestine) goes on. It is useful primarily if there is a period of time when it is necessary to avoid using the toilet.

Dehydration is a potentially serious complication of stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis). It can occur if your body loses too much fluid because you keep vomiting or having diarrhea. If you are severely dehydrated, you may need to be given fluids intravenously (IV).

Gastroenteritis Diet

Foods to avoid entirely until you are feeling better:

    * No spicy or fried foods
    * No alcohol
    * No caffeinated beverages because they dehydrate your body
    * No dried peas or beans
    * No raw or dried vegetables or fruits (except bananas)
    * No whole grain breads, cereals, or bran
    * No milk or milk products (cheese, yogurt, ice cream, or creamed soups)
    * No nuts, seeds, coconut, popcorn

Suggested progression of a diet as you recover:

Step 1:

    * Jello
    * Clear soups or bouillon
    * Decaffeinated soda (add a little sugar to “de-fizz” it)
    * Diluted apple or cranberry juice (not orange juice)
    * Gatorade or Kool-Aid
    * Water/ice chips
    * Popsicles
    * Hard candy
    * Plain saltines
    * Decaffeinated tea with honey/sweetener

Step 2:

Anything from Step 1 plus:

    * Applesauce
    * Bananas
    * Mashed potatoes
    * Plain pasta, rice - without butter, margarine or sauce
    * Reined cereals, such as Rice crispies, puffed wheat, puffed rice, corn lakes, Cream of Wheat, Farina, Cream of Rice
    * Toast (white or light rye bread) with jelly (not jam, butter or margarine)

Step 3:

Anything from Steps 1 or 2 plus:

    * Broiled or boiled lean meat, white poultry or fish
    * Poached or boiled eggs
    * Well-cooked vegetables and fruits without seeds or skins
    * Sherbet or sorbet

When food from one step is tolerated, go to the next step. Progression through the steps may be rapid from one meal to the next as you feel better. Most people are back to a normal diet in 2 to 3 days’ time. If you find that any particular food aggravates your system or makes your condition worse, eliminate this food. In general, avoid dairy products, spicy foods and red meat until other foods are well tolerated for several days.

How do I take care of myself?

Rest your stomach and intestines by following the guidelines, but make sure you prevent dehydration by drinking enough liquids. Drink just small amounts frequently during the vomiting phase of your illness.

What can I do to prevent it?

The single most helpful way to prevent the spread of stomach flu is frequent, thorough hand washing. Also, avoid contact with the body fluids of an infected person, including saliva (shared cups, utensils, etc.).

Can I make an appointment at Health Services?

If you are a Brown student and you are concerned about stomach flu, you can make a confidential appointment at Health Services by calling 401.863-3953. Health Services provides a range of services including general health care, inpatient services and emergency medical care. You can request a medical provider by gender or by name. We are located at 13 Brown Street on the corner of Brown and Charlesfield Streets.

Stomach Flu and Food Poisoning

2011-07-29T22:12:00.000-07:00

Stomach flu and food poisoning are different ailments with different causes. However, many people confuse the two because the symptoms are so similar. Most people who get food poisoning attribute their symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain to a sudden case of stomach flu, and vice versa.

Stomach flu is usually caused by a viral infection in the digestive system. To prevent stomach flu, you must avoid contact with the virus, which is not always easy to do.

Food poisoning is usually caused by a toxin produced by bacteria in food that is not handled or stored properly. Bacteria can grow rapidly when certain foods, especially meats, dairy products, and sauces, are not handled properly during preparation or are kept at temperatures between 4° and 60°C (40° and 140°F).

Suspect food poisoning when symptoms are shared by others who ate the same food, or after eating unrefrigerated foods. Symptoms of food poisoning may begin as soon as 1 or 2 hours or as long as 48 hours after eating. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may last from 12 to 48 hours for common food poisoning.

Botulism is a rare but often fatal type of food poisoning. It is generally caused by improper home canning methods for low-acid foods like beans and corn. Bacteria that survive the canning process may grow and produce toxin in the jar. Symptoms include blurred or double vision and difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Prevention

To prevent food poisoning:

Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.

Don't eat meat, dressings, salads, or other foods that have been kept for more than 2 hours between 4° and 60°C (40° and 140°F).

Use a thermometer to check your refrigerator. It should be between 0° and 4°C (34° and 40°F).

Defrost meats in the refrigerator or microwave, not on the kitchen counter.

Keep your kitchen clean. Wash your hands, cutting boards, and counter tops frequently. After handling raw meats, especially chicken, wash your hands and utensils before preparing other foods.

Cook hamburger until it is well done. Cook chicken until the juices run clear.

Do not eat raw eggs or uncooked sauces made with raw eggs.

Discard any cans or jars with bulging lids or leaks.

Follow home canning and freezing instructions carefully. Contact your provincial Ministry of Agriculture for advice.

Home Treatment

Viral stomach flu and food poisoning will usually go away within 24 to 48 hours. Good home care can speed recovery. For adults and children age 4 and older, see Nausea and Vomiting on See Nausea and Vomiting and Diarrhea on See Diarrhea. For children younger than 4, See Diarrhea and Vomiting.

Watch for and treat early signs of dehydration (See Dehydration). Older adults and young children can quickly become dehydrated from diarrhea and vomiting.

When to Call a Health Professional

If vomiting lasts longer than 1 day in an adult.

If severe diarrhea (large, loose stools every 1 to 2 hours) lasts longer than 2 days in an adult.

If signs of severe dehydration develop. See Dehydration.

If you suspect food poisoning from a canned food or have symptoms of botulism (blurred or double vision, difficulty swallowing or breathing). If you still have a sample of the food you suspect caused your symptoms, take it to the doctor for testing.

Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T22:10:00.000-07:00

What we typically call "stomach flu" is actually known as gastroenteritis, and it has nothing to do with influenza. In fact, its most common symptoms are diarrhea and vomiting. The keys to recovery are stopping the diarrhea, drinking lots of fluids, and following a mild diet.

What Is It?

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It's highly contagious — in fact, viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the United States. The most common viruses include rotavirus (especially in children), norovirus (a.k.a. Norwalk virus), and others.

What Are the Causes?

Typically gastroenteritis is caused by a virus, but it can also be caused by bacterial or parasitic infections.

Gastroenteritis can stem from:

    * Contaminated water and food (especially seafood)
    * Contact with an infected person
    * Unwashed hands
    * Dirty utensils

What Are the Symptoms?

The main symptom of gastroenteritis is diarrhea. Other common symptoms include:

    * Abdominal pain
    * Nausea
    * Vomiting
    * Fever
    * Sweating or clammy skin

How Do You Treat It?

Most cases of gastroenteritis can get better on their own over time, without the need for a medicine such as IMODIUM®. But the most important thing to do is to treat your symptoms and prevent dehydration. Lots of your body's fluids are lost from diarrhea and vomiting.

    * Rehydrate yourself. Drink lots of bottled water or sports drinks with electrolytes.
    * Avoid dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol until your symptoms subside.

How Can You Prevent It?

You can reduce your risk of getting gastroenteritis by:

    * Washing your hands frequently, especially after going to the bathroom, changing diapers, and working with food.
    * Washing your hands before eating.
    * Cleaning and disinfecting kitchen surfaces, especially when working with raw meat or eggs.

How long am I contagious if I have the stomach flu?

2011-07-29T22:08:00.000-07:00

It depends on which virus is causing your stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis). A number of viruses can cause gastroenteritis, including noroviruses and rotaviruses. The contagious period — the time during which a sick person can give the illness to others — is slightly different for each virus.

* Norovirus. Norovirus is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis in adults. Symptoms appear within one to three days of exposure. With norovirus, you're contagious from the moment you begin to feel ill. Although you typically feel better after a day or two, you're contagious for at least three days after you've recovered. Some people may be contagious for up to two weeks after recovery. Also, children are often contagious for a longer period than are adults.

* Rotavirus. Rotavirus is the leading cause of viral gastroenteritis in infants and young children. Symptoms of rotavirus appear one to two days after exposure. But you're contagious even before you develop symptoms, and you typically remain contagious for two weeks after you've recovered. Children are often contagious for a longer period than are adults.

To avoid infection, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly — whether you feel ill or not. When soap and water aren't readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to disinfect your hands. The viruses that cause gastroenteritis are spread through close contact with infected persons, such as by sharing food or eating utensils. Washing your hands or using hand sanitizer is the most effective way to stop the spread of these viruses to others.

I got the flu shot last year, but I still got the stomach flu. Why should I bother getting it again this year if it doesn't work?

The flu shot protects against influenza, which isn't the same thing as the stomach flu (gastroenteritis). Gastroenteritis is an infection caused by a variety of viruses, including rotaviruses and noroviruses. Although it is often called the stomach flu, it is not caused by influenza viruses.

Real flu (influenza) attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs — causing fever, muscle aches, coughing and congestion. Gastroenteritis, on the other hand, attacks your intestines, causing signs and symptoms such as watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps.

No vaccine is available for gastroenteritis with the exception of a newly released rotavirus vaccine called RotaTeq, an oral vaccine for infants. However, you can reduce your risk of gastroenteritis by frequent and thorough hand washing.

The flu vaccine is the most effective way to reduce your risk of getting influenza.

Stomach flu or influenza?

2011-07-29T22:04:00.000-07:00

Do you know the difference between stomach flu and influenza? " Stomach flu" is a popular term but not the true medical diagnosis. The proper medical term for stomach flu is gastroenteritis.

Sometimes people mistake symptoms of stomach flu or gastroenteritis for the viral infection we commonly call ‘flu’, which has symptoms of high temperature, congestion, muscle aches and fatigue. Learn more about stomach flu and influenza so you can recognise flu symptoms and seek proper treatment.

How does stomach flu differ from influenza?

Stomach flu actually refers to gastroenteritis or irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines (the gastrointestinal tract). Gastroenteritis may be caused by a virus, bacteria, parasites in spoiled food or unclean water.

Influenza (flu), on the other hand, is a viral infection that mimics a cold except that it starts forcefully with symptoms of fatigue, high temperature and respiratory congestion. While more than 100 different virus types can cause a common cold, only influenza virus types A, B and C cause flu. More severe cases of influenza can lead to life-threatening illnesses such as pneumonia.

In addition while antibiotics can treat a bacterial infection, antibiotics cannot treat influenza because flu is caused by a virus.

What are the symptoms of gastroenteritis (stomach flu)?

Symptoms of gastroenteritis or stomach flu include abdominal cramps, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. You may also have a high temperature, headache and swollen lymph glands, depending on the type of bug that causes it.

In severe cases of gastroenteritis, loss of bodily fluid can result in dehydration, a life-threatening condition that needs medical attention. Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, light-headedness, increased thirst, dry or sticky mucus membranes in the mouth, lack of normal elasticity of the skin, decreased urine output and decreased tears.

You can avoid dehydration by continuing to drink fluids and trying to eat as normally as possible. Eating bland foods such as bananas, rice, apple sauce and dry toast is sometimes easier, and these are easily digested and less likely to irritate the sensitive gastrointestinal system.

What causes gastroenteritis (stomach flu)?

There are many causes of stomach flu (gastroenteritis), including bacteria such as E coli, Shigella and Salmonella. Viruses can also cause stomach flu and are responsible for 30% to 40% of gastroenteritis cases in children. Common stomach flu viruses include norovirus or Norwalk virus, adenovirus, rotavirus, calicivirus and astrovirus. Stomach viruses are notorious for spreading rapidly because of poor hand washing.

While not as common, parasites such as giardia and cryptosporidium can cause severe diarrhoea and dehydration. Water-borne parasites are common in underdeveloped parts of the world that have unsanitary water supplies. It is recommended that travellers drink only bottled water to avoid water-borne parasites - a potential cause of gastroenteritis.

A lack of good hygiene can result in gastroenteritis. For instance improper hand washing after going to the toilet or after changing a baby's nappy can spread the infectious bug from person to person. Many doctors call stomach flu "a family affair" because it is so highly contagious and usually goes through all members of a family.

Who's at risk of gastroenteritis (stomach flu)?

Those at high risk for stomach flu include pregnant women, infants, undernourished and immune-compromised people, and older adults.

In addition the severity of infectious gastroenteritis depends on your immune system's ability to resist the infection. Electrolytes (these include the essential minerals sodium and potassium) may be lost as you vomit and experience diarrhoea.

When should you seek medical advice for gastroenteritis (stomach flu)?

If you experience symptoms of gastroenteritis and are weak and dizzy, you may be dehydrated. If you cannot drink fluids but continue to lose fluids through high temperature, vomiting and diarrhoea, you should seek medical advice. If you are sleepy or unaware, you should definitely be taken to a doctor or to a hospital's accident and emergency department. Other signs that warrant medical treatment include:

    * blood in the vomit or stool
    * dehydration (check for little to no urination, extreme thirst, lack of tears and dry mouth)
    * temperature higher than 38C (100.4F)
    * swollen abdomen or abdominal pain
    * vomiting that lasts more than 48 hours

Oh no, it's the stomach flu! Get facts and myths on how to treat it

2011-07-29T22:03:00.000-07:00

As if the economy and the weather aren't causing enough nausea-inducing misery, the stomach flu seems more rampant than ever this winter.

"We've seen an increase in the number of calls about it this year," reports Dr. Christina Tennyson, assistant professor of clinical medicine at Columbia University Medical Center. "And though most people feel better after a few days, in some cases people need to come into the ER and get rehydrated."

Here, 10 myths about the stomach flu - how to deal and how not to deal.

The myth: Water is the best thing to drink after a bout with vomiting.

The reality: Water doesn't contain any of the essential electrolytes the body needs to replace after vomiting, says Dr. Richard Fleece, assistant professor of clinical pediatrics at Temple University School of Medicine. Instead, sip an electrolyte-replacing solution like Pedialyte. Don't have any on hand? "Dilute fruit juice half and half with water," he suggests.

The myth: Coke syrup settles the stomach.

The reality: That's so old school, says Fleece. So are cherry syrup and the syrup from canned fruit cocktail. If you don't have Pedialyte, dilute Gatorade or flat ginger ale 50-50.

The myth: If you - or your child - is thirsty after a bout of vomiting, there's no limit to how much you should drink.

The reality: Here's where a lot of people get into trouble. Just as important as what you drink is how much - especially with kids. After your child throws up, offer one or two tablespoons (measure it!) of Pedialyte, says Dr. Andrea McCoy, chief medical officer at Jeanes Hospital in Philadelphia. If it comes back up, wait 20 minutes and try again. If it stays down, "slowly increase the amount to 2 tablespoons every 10 minutes."

The myth: It's okay to give straight fruit juice during stomach flu.

The reality: Fruit juice can be really irritating on an upset stomach, so avoid it for at least the first couple of hours after the vomiting stops or dilute it with water 50-50. "After you haven't vomited in two hours, you could have some fruit juice as long as there is no diarrhea," McCoy says. "But go easy. Many stomach bugs have some diarrhea that doesn't start until after the vomiting."

The myth: All fruit juices are created equal.

The reality: White grape juice is ideal, McCoy says. "If it comes back up it won't stain the furniture," she says. "And it won't make the diarrhea worse like apple juice will."

The myth: After a stomach flu, don't eat solid food for 24 hours.

Stomach flu (gastroenteritis)

2011-07-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

What is stomach flu?

Stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, is an inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract. Despite the name, it's not caused by the influenza virus. The most common culprit is one of a number of other viruses, including rotavirus, adenovirus, calicivirus, and astrovirus.

But gastroenteritis can also be caused by a potentially more serious bacterial infection, such as Salmonella, Shigella, Staphylococcus, Campylobacter, or E. coli. Still other cases are caused by parasites such as giardia.

If your baby has gastroenteritis, she may have diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, chills, and achiness. Her symptoms may be mild or severe, and they may last for just a few hours or for days, depending on the culprit.

How did my baby get stomach flu?

Viral gastroenteritis is very contagious. Your baby may have eaten something contaminated with the virus or shared a cup or utensils with someone who has the virus. (It's possible to have the virus without showing symptoms.)

If bacteria or a parasite is to blame, your child may have ingested contaminated food or drinking water.

Another way your baby may have picked up the illness is by coming in contact with infected fecal matter and then putting her hands in her mouth. This sounds gross, but it happens a lot, especially in daycare situations. Remember that germs are microscopic, so even when a child's hands don't look dirty, they may be covered with bacteria.

How common is stomach flu?

Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the United States after upper respiratory infections such as colds. Most babies will come down with the stomach flu at least twice a year, more often if they're in daycare. Kids often enjoy a boost in their immunity after they turn 3 years old and may not contract it as often.

When should I call my child's doctor?

Give the doctor a call as soon as you suspect that your baby has gastroenteritis. Also call if your baby has been vomiting for more than two days or has blood in her stool, or you think she's excessively fussy.

Use your doctor's guidelines for phoning in the event of a fever. (Common suggestions are fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit if your baby's less than 3 months old; a fever of 101 degrees F if she's between 3 and 6 months old; and a fever of 103 degrees F or higher if she's 6 months or older.)

Also call your doctor if your baby shows any of the classic signs of dehydration:

    * decreased urination (more than six hours without a wet diaper)
    * excessive sleepiness or fussiness
    * a sunken soft spot
    * wrinkled skin
    * sunken eyes
    * extreme thirst
    * dry lips
    * crying without tears
    * cool, discolored hands and feet

If your baby appears dehydrated and no doctor is available, take her to the emergency room.

If your baby is in danger of dehydration, the doctor might recommend IV rehydration. He may want to admit her to the hospital or just keep her there for a few hours.

If a blood or stool test reveals that your child has a parasitic or bacterial infection, she may also be given a course of antibiotics. Don't be alarmed. Odds are, she'll be released and back to her healthy self within a few days.

How should I treat stomach flu?

First, you'll want to call your baby's doctor and tell her what's going on, especially if your child is under 6 months.

If your baby has a bacterial infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Medication won't be helpful for a case of viral gastroenteritis, though, which like all viral infections just has to run its course. Don't give your child anti-diarrhea medication — it'll just prolong her illness and can have potentially serious side effects.

If your child has a fever and seems uncomfortable, ask your doctor about giving her the appropriate dose of infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Never give your child aspirin, which is associated with Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal illness.

Dehydration is a concern whenever a child is losing fluid, whether it's through vomiting, diarrhea, or a fever.

Depending on how much she's vomiting and whether she's able to keep down any liquids, the doctor may recommend giving her an over-the-counter oral electrolyte solution, such as Pedialyte, Rehydralyte, or Enfalyte. These solutions help replace lost fluids, minerals, and salts. The doctor can let you know how much your baby should be drinking based on her age and weight.

If your child isn't able to keep down formula or breast milk, the doctor may advise you to give her small sips of the electrolyte solution throughout the day, until she's able to keep that down, and then slowly go back to her normal diet.

While you're trying to keep your baby hydrated, stay away from high-sugar foods like juices, sodas, and Jell-O, which can make stomach flu symptoms worse. (Gastroenteritis can temporarily damage the lining of the small intestine, making it difficult to digest these sweet foods.)

If your baby is eating solids and has a relatively mild case of gastroenteritis — say, mild diarrhea but no vomiting — she can continue to eat modest amounts throughout the course of her illness and probably won't require oral electrolyte solution. Breastfeeding or formula feeding should be enough to keep her hydrated.

When can my baby go back to eating solids?

Talk with the doctor and follow your baby's cues. She may be able to continue eating almost normally, or it may be better to keep her off solid foods for a couple of days.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children with gastroenteritis resume a normal diet (staying away from fatty foods) as soon as possible. That includes such staples as complex carbohydrates (whole-grain breads and cereals), lean meats, yogurt, fruits, and vegetables.

Take note that this menu is different from the diet doctors used to prescribe. "The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) was once very commonly advocated, but we no longer recommend it because it lacks protein and other vital nutrients," says William John Cochran, associate professor of pediatrics at the Geisinger Clinic in Danville, Pennsylvania.

Studies show that reintroducing a standard diet soon after acute symptoms ease can actually shorten a child's bout of gastroenteritis by half a day because it restores nutrients to the system that are necessary to fight infection. On the other hand, if the bug kills your baby's appetite and she misses a few days of good nutrition, don't worry. As long as she stays hydrated, she'll be fine.

How can I help protect my baby against gastroenteritis?

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after every diaper change and bathroom visit and before preparing or eating food. The same goes for other family members and daycare staff. It's also a good idea to wash your baby's hands often throughout the day.

What's more, be sure to follow safe food preparation and cooking practices.

To prevent your child from getting rotavirus (which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, especially in babies and young children), your baby should receive three doses of the rotavirus vaccine: one at 2 months, another at 4 months, and the last at 6 months.

The Stomach Flu - Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

2011-07-29T22:00:00.001-07:00

Viral gastroenteritis, also known as "the stomach flu", is a very common infection of the stomach and intestines. It is the second most common illness encountered in American families and causes approximately 50,000 hospitalizations per year. Viruses that are transferred from infected food to person and passed from person to person via contaminated silverware, food and water cause it. These viruses can be very contagious and "outbreaks" may occur if appropriate hand washing and sterilization does not occur in public facilities. Outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis are common in schools, hospitals, long-term care facilities, jails, dormitories, and cruise ships.

The viruses which cause gastroenteritis are rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus, saporvirus and astrovirus. Rotavirus is the most common virus implicated in this illness. It causes endemic gastroenteritis in infants and children. Norovirus (Norwalk virus) causes ninety percent of outbreaks of gastroenteritis in the U.S. Although "the stomach flu" implies the influenza virus is associated with this infection, it is not.

Viral gastroenteritis is characterized by intense muscle aches, cramps and chills which precede nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Vomiting and diarrhea usually temporarily relieve the nausea and pain. The vomit and diarrhea are usually non-bloody and the stool may lighten in color. People often feel fatigued and dehydrated because of the energy involved with clearing the infection from the body and losing fluid via vomiting and diarrhea. The symptoms begin 1-2 days after becoming infected with the virus and last 1-10 days, depending on which virus is involved.

The treatment of viral gastroenteritis includes rest, analgesics and re-hydration. Tylenol may be used to treat fever and muscle cramps. The replenishment of fluids with water, electrolyte drinks or oral rehydration solutions (sugar and electrolytes) is essential to prevent dehydration. When replacing fluids, it is important to replace volume and electrolytes such as sodium, chloride, hydrogen and potassium. Water as hydration helps replace volume, but if too much is given without replacement of electrolytes, the relative concentration of these important ions decreases and metabolic/electrolyte imbalances occur in the body. Re-hydration should occur with electrolyte drinks to protect against hyponatremia. Most quality sports drinks will fill this requirement.

One should drink enough fluid to keep their mouth moist and their urine light yellow to clear. As the diarrhea and/or vomiting subsides, one may slowly introduce soft foods into the diet. Soft foods are jello, saltine crackers, pudding, rice, bread and soups without meats. It is important to watch for abdominal cramping, retching or liquid stools while trying to resume a normal diet, these symptoms could indicate the intestines are still inflamed from the infection and need more time to heal.

Adequate hydration is especially important in people who are young (infants), elderly, frail and immunocompromised - their bodies are already stressed and gastroenteritis can take a huge toll on the body. These people are usually either dependent on others for fluid and food or have difficulty maintaining healthy nutrition. Vomiting and diarrhea may further deplete their bodies of already limited water and energy stores.

If dehydration occurs, the body's normal fluid balance is disturbed and potentially serious electrolyte (sodium, potassium, hydrogen, bicarbonate, and chloride) abnormalities can occur. When electrolyte abnormalities are severe and prolonged, the function of the nervous, cardiovascular, pulmonary and renal systems is compromised. Dehydration is characterized by fatigue, dry mouth, decreased urination, loose skin and lightheadedness (especially when changing from the laying to standing positions).

Although one may be tempted to use anti-diarrheal (Imodium) and anti-vomiting (Phenergan) medications, these types of medications are not recommended during this illness. Vomiting and diarrhea are the body's way of getting rid of the virus, and even though these symptoms are distressing and uncomfortable, it is important to allow the body's natural defense mechanism to function. The exception to this rule occurs when someone cannot hold down fluids and is dehydrated; the use of an anti-diarrheal medication can help the body restore its fluid balance.

Viral gastroenteritis can be prevented by thorough hand washing after eating and using the bathroom and wiping surfaces that have come in contact with infected food with disinfectant cleaners. Eating a balanced diet and taking supplements which boost the immune system can also prevent one from getting viral gastroenteritis.

"Stomach Flu"

2011-07-29T21:55:00.000-07:00

Many people talk about the "stomach flu" when they're feeling sick to their stomachs. It isn't the same as influenza, or the flu. Stomach flu is an illness called gastroenteritis (say: gas-tro-en-tuh-rye-tus), which is usually caused by a virus.

Someone with gastroenteritis may have stomach cramps, diarrhea (say: dye-uh-ree-uh), a fever, and nausea (say: naw-zee-uh), and might throw up. He or she will probably feel pretty sick for a day or two but will then get better.

There is no vaccine or cure for gastroenteritis. If you have it, you'll want to rest until you feel better. If you're throwing up, don't eat solid food. Instead, sip fluids, such as water, or try a popsicle. Your mom or dad also might give you an oral rehydration (say: ree-hye-dray-shun) solution. That's a fancy name for those special fruit-flavored drinks that contain carbohydrates and electrolytes — stuff your body can get low on when you're dehydrated from diarrhea or throwing up.

Once you stop throwing up, you can try other kinds of clear liquids like chicken broth and juices. When you start to feel better, try eating bland foods like gelatin, toast, pretzels or crackers, bananas, rice, and plain noodles. As your digestive system returns to normal, you can gradually go back to eating what you usually do.

Gastroenteritis is contagious (say: kun-tay-jus), which means that someone who has it can spread it to other people. It's spread by close contact with the person who is sick or by eating food that's contaminated. That's why it's important to wash your hands, especially before you eat and after going pee or poop!

Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis)

2011-07-29T21:54:00.000-07:00

Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) is an intestinal infection caused by several different viruses. Highly contagious, Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) is the second most common illness in the United States. It causes millions of cases of diarrhea each year.

Anyone can get Stomach Flu and most people recover without any complications. However, Stomach Flu can be serious when people cannot drink enough fluids to replace what is lost through vomiting and diarrhea—especially infants, young children, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems.

Stomach Flu Symptoms

The main symptoms of Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) are watery diarrhea and vomiting. Other symptoms are headache, fever, chills, and abdominal pain. Symptoms usually appear within 4 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus and last for 1 to 2 days, though symptoms can last as long as 10 days.

Stomach Flu Causes

The viruses that cause Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) damage the cells in the lining of the small intestine. As a result, fluids leak from the cells into the intestine and produce watery diarrhea. Four types of viruses cause most Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis).

    * Rotavirus is the leading cause among children 3 to 15 months old and the most common cause of diarrhea in children under the age of 5 years. Symptoms of rotavirus infection appear 1 to 2 days after exposure. Rotavirus typically causes vomiting and watery diarrhea for 3 to 8 days, along with fever and abdominal pain. Rotavirus can also infect adults who are in close contact with infected children, but the symptoms in adults are milder. In the United States, rotavirus infections are most common from November to April.
    * Adenovirus occurs mainly in children under the age of 2 years. Of the 49 types of adenoviruses, one strain affects the gastrointestinal tract causing vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms typically appear 1 week after exposure. Adenovirus infections occur year round.
    * Caliciviruses cause infection in people of all ages. This family of viruses is divided into 4 types, the noroviruses being the most common and most responsible for infecting people. The noroviruses are usually responsible for epidemics of Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) and occur more frequently from October to April. Infected people experience vomiting and diarrhea, fatigue, headache, and sometimes muscle aches. The symptoms appear within 1 to 3 days of exposure.
    * Astrovirus also infects primarily infants, young children, and the elderly. This virus is most active during the winter months. Vomiting and diarrhea appear within 1 to 3 days of exposure.

Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) is often mistakenly called “- stomach flu,” but it is not caused by the influenza virus and it does not infect the stomach. Also, Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) is not caused by bacteria or parasites. For information about bacterial infections, please see the Bacteria and Foodborne Illness fact sheet from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

Stomach Virus Transmission

Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) is highly contagious. The viruses are commonly transmitted by people with unwashed hands. People can get the viruses through close contact with infected individuals by sharing their food, drink, or eating utensils, or by eating food or drinking beverages that are contaminated with the virus. Noroviruses in particular, are typically spread to other people by contact with stool or vomit of infected people and through contaminated water or food—- especially oysters from contaminated waters.

People who no longer have symptoms may still be contagious, since the virus can be found in their stool for up to 2 weeks after they recover from their illness. Also, people can become infected without having symptoms and they can still spread the infection.

Outbreaks of Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) can occur in households, child care settings, schools, nursing homes, cruise ships, camps, dormitories, restaurants, and other places where people gather in groups. If you suspect that you were exposed to a virus in one of these settings or by foods prepared on the premise of places such as a restaurant, deli, or bakery, you may want to contact your local health department, which tracks outbreaks.

Stomach Virus Diagnosis

If you think you have Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis), you may want to see your doctor. Doctors generally diagnose Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) based on the symptoms and a physical examination. Your doctor may ask for a stool sample to test for rotavirus or to rule out bacteria or parasites as the cause of your symptoms. No routine tests are currently available for the other types of viruses.

Stomach Virus Treatment

Most cases of Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) resolve over time without specific treatment. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms, and prompt treatment may be needed to prevent dehydration.

Your body needs fluids to function. Dehydration is the loss of fluids from the body. Important salts or minerals, known as electrolytes, can also be lost with the fluids. Dehydration can be caused by diarrhea, vomiting, excessive urination, excessive sweating, or by not drinking enough fluids because of nausea, difficulty swallowing, or loss of appetite.

In Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis), the combination of diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration. The symptoms of dehydration are

    * excessive thirst
    * dry mouth
    * little or no urine or dark yellow urine
    * decreased tears
    * severe weakness or lethargy
    * dizziness or lightheadedness

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor. Mild dehydration can be treated by drinking liquids. Severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids and hospitalization. Untreated severe dehydration can be life threatening.

Children present special concerns. Because of their smaller body size, infants and children are at greater risk of dehydration from diarrhea and vomiting. Oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte can replace lost fluids, minerals, and salts.

The following steps may help relieve the symptoms of Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis).

    * Allow your gastrointestinal tract to settle by not eating for a few hours.
    * Sip small amounts of clear liquids or suck on ice chips if vomiting is still a problem.
    * Give infants and children oral rehydration solutions to replace fluids and lost electrolytes.
    * Gradually reintroduce food, starting with bland, easy-to-digest food, like toast, broth, apples, bananas, and rice.
    * Avoid dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol until recovery is complete.
    * Get plenty of rest.

Stomach Flu Prevention

Prevention is the only way to avoid Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis). No vaccine is available. You can avoid infection by

    * washing your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after using the bathroom or changing diapers
    * washing your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds before eating
    * disinfecting contaminated surfaces such as counter tops and baby changing stations
    * not eating or drinking foods or liquids that might be contaminated

Hope Through Research

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), through its Division of Digestive Diseases, supports basic and clinical research into gastrointestinal diseases, including epithelial cell injury in the gastrointestinal tract. New vaccines under development may decrease the risk of infection, especially among infants and young children.

Important Points to Remember

    * Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) is a highly contagious infection of the intestines caused by one of several viruses.
    * Although sometimes called "stomach flu," Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) is not caused by the influenza virus and does not affect the stomach.
    * The main symptoms are watery diarrhea and vomiting.
    * Anyone can get Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) through unwashed hands, close contact with an infected person, or food and beverages that contain the virus.
    * Diagnosis is based on the symptoms and a physical examination. Currently only rotavirus can be rapidly detected in a stool test.
    * Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) has no specific treatment; antibiotics are not effective against viruses. Treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms and preventing dehydration.
    * The symptoms of dehydration are excessive thirst, dry mouth, dark yellow urine or little or no urine, decreased tears, severe weakness or lethargy, and dizziness or lightheadedness.
    * Infants, young children, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems have a higher risk of developing dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea.
    * People with Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) should rest, drink clear liquids, and eat easy-to-digest foods.
    * For infants and young children, oral rehydration solutions can replace lost fluids, minerals, and salts.
    * Avoid Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis) by washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom or changing diapers, disinfecting contaminated surfaces, and avoiding foods or liquids that might be contaminated.

Stop the Stomach Flu!

2011-07-29T21:51:00.000-07:00

Stomach Flu Facts:

    * Symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea
    * It is caused by viruses. It is viral gastroenteritis and is not related to influenza (the real flu).
    * Millions of viruses are in poop, vomit, and possibly nasal secretions of a sick person.
    * Illness is spread when a few of these viruses get into someone else's mouth.
    * A person is contagious (still producing viruses) for at least 3 days after symptoms have stopped.
    * The viruses can live for weeks on surfaces.
    * Clean with chlorine bleach or Lysol® disinfectant spray. Clorox® wipes and Lysol® wipes DO NOT kill these viruses.
    * Stay away from other people as much as possible while you are contagious.
    * Most importantly, wash your hands frequently!

Welcome to "Stop the Stomach Flu"

If you have stumbled upon my web site because you or a loved one is suffering from the stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis), you have my deepest sympathy. Yes, there are worse illnesses in the world. But the stomach flu is the worst one that is definitely going to happen to all of us and happens so frequently. It is the second most common illness in the United States1 (the common cold is #1). Most people don't really care if they have a cold, but I think we can all agree that the stomach flu is entirely too awful to be so prevalent. I know 2 families who have had the stomach flu 4 times during the past year! In my experience, it seems that most people have no idea how they got the stomach flu or how they could give it to someone else. I believe that if people were educated about the stomach flu, how it is spread, and how long they are contagious, we would not all have to get it so many times.

Why am I qualified to write about the stomach flu?

I have a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and am also a mom with 3 small children. I have gone through several awful stomach flu episodes with my family. I passionately hate the stomach flu. The purpose of this web site is to promote awareness of stomach flu facts so people will learn how to avoid it and how not to give it to everyone else if they do get it. I have provided links to the credible web sites where I got my information. Whenever possible I reference the journal articles describing the actual scientific experiments done to determine these facts so you can trust that this information is accurate. Since most people who hate the stomach flu are also interested in avoiding anything that causes them to be up all night throwing up, I provide information about other causes of gastroenteritis including food poisoning. This is a great place to brush up on your knowledge of norovirus, rotavirus, e.coli, salmonella, and many other unpleasant organisms that you'd like to avoid.

I am not a medical doctor. This information is not intended to be medical advice or replace the advice offered by your physician. If you or your loved one is extremely sick, please call your doctor right away or go to the emergency room.

Please e-mail me your questions, comments, additional facts, and personal stories. I would like people to share their own personal stories so we can learn from each other’s experiences. I’d love to hear from physicians, nurses, researchers, parents, and anyone with self-proclaimed emetophobia (fear of vomiting). I will do my best to find the answers to your questions. I will post any interesting comments that I receive on this web site for everyone to read. My name is Annie and my e-mail is phd.annie at gmail.com. I had to write my e-mail that way to decrease the number of Viagra ads that I receive. I hope you understand what it means.

When you are feeling better and have fully educated yourself about the stomach flu, please check out the baby product that I invented. It is perfect for baby shower gifts and has NOTHING to do with the stomach flu!

Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T21:49:00.000-07:00

The stomach flu is not really a flu. Rather, it is a viral infection caused by several different viruses, such as Norwalk virus or rotavirus. Regardless of the virus that causes the infection, symptoms typically include diarrhea and vomiting. Treatment usually consists of managing the symptoms while the body fights off the infection.

What Is the Stomach Flu?

Stomach flu is an intestinal infection caused by several different viruses that can result in diarrhea and vomiting. A highly contagious condition, the stomach flu is the second most common illness in the United States. It causes millions of cases of diarrhea each year.

But the so-called "stomach flu" is actually not stomach flu at all. Viruses that cause it affect the small intestine, not the stomach. Furthermore, stomach flu viruses are not flu viruses. The flu virus is the influenza virus, which affects the respiratory system. The influenza virus does not affect the intestines.

Regardless of the inaccuracies of the term "stomach flu," it is the most commonly used term to describe what healthcare providers call viral gastroenteritis.

Who Does It Affect?

Anyone can get the stomach flu. It occurs in people of all ages and backgrounds.

Outbreaks can occur in institutional settings, such as schools, childcare facilities, and nursing homes, and it can occur in other group settings, such as banquet halls, cruise ships, dormitories, and campgrounds.

Viruses That Cause It

Many different viruses can cause this illness. Some common types of stomach flu viruses include:

    * Rotavirus
    * Adenovirus
    * Caliciviruses
    * Norwalk virus
    * Noroviruses (see Norovirus)
    * Astrovirus.

Each virus has its own seasonal activity. For example, in the United States, rotavirus and astrovirus infections occur during the cooler months of the year (October to April), whereas adenovirus infections occur throughout the year.

How Is Stomach Flu Spread?

Stomach flu is highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person. These viruses often can be found in the stool or vomit of infected people. Transmission can occur in one of several ways, including:

    * Eating foods or drinking liquids that are contaminated with a stomach flu virus
    * Having direct contact with another person who is infected and showing symptoms (for example, when caring for someone with the illness, or sharing food or eating utensils with someone who is ill)
    * Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with a virus and then putting your hands in your mouth.

Incubation Period

When a person becomes infected with stomach flu, the virus

Contagious Period

Whether or not a person is contagious during the incubation period will depend on which virus he or she is infected with. For example, with a rotavirus infection, the person is contagious during the incubation period. He or she is also contagious while experiencing symptoms. Once the diarrhea has ended, a person with rotavirus gastroenteritis is no longer contagious.

With a norovirus infection (including Norwalk virus), a person is not usually contagious during the stomach flu incubation period. People infected with norovirus gastroenteritis are usually contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill to at least 3 days after recovery. Some people may be contagious for as long as 2 weeks after recovery.

Symptoms of Stomach Flu

Not all people who are infected with a stomach flu virus will develop associated symptoms. If symptoms do occur, the illness can begin suddenly. Symptoms of stomach flu can last anywhere from 1 to 10 days, depending on which virus a person is infected with. Symptoms can be mild to severe. The most common symptoms are diarrhea and vomiting.

Making a Diagnosis

In order to make a diagnosis, the healthcare provider will ask a number of questions about a person's medical history and will perform a physical exam, looking for signs and symptoms of stomach flu. If the doctor suspects rotavirus, he or she may test the stool for it. Besides rotavirus, there are no specific routine lab tests commonly used to identify other stomach flu viruses.

Treatment for Stomach Flu

Stomach flu has no specific treatment; antibiotics are not effective against viruses. Treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms and preventing dehydration while the body fights the infection.

People with stomach flu should rest, drink clear liquids, and eat easy-to-digest foods. For infants and young children, oral rehydration solutions can replace lost fluids, minerals, and salts.

Prevention

No vaccine is available for stomach flu, with the exception of the rotavirus vaccine (Rotarix®, RotaTeq®). These oral vaccines are for infants aged 6 weeks to 32 weeks (for RotaTeq) or age 6 weeks to 24 weeks (for Rotarix).

Therefore, the best prevention method involves reducing your chances of coming in contact with stomach flu viruses.

Other Names for Stomach Flu

Besides stomach flu, people use a variety of other names to describe a viral infection of the intestines that leads to diarrhea and vomiting. Some of these other names include:

    * Viral gastroenteritis (gastroenteritis refers to an inflammation of the stomach and intestines)
    * Acute gastroenteritis
    * Non-bacterial gastroenteritis
    * Food poisoning (although there are other causes of food poisoning)
    * Stomach virus
    * 24-hour stomach virus
    * Rotavirus gastroenteritis
    * Norovirus gastroenteritis.

The stomach flu!

2011-07-29T21:45:00.001-07:00

As Canadians begin to huddle in their homes to take shelter from the cold and we've started the holiday visiting season, we need to be aware of a virus lurking around that could seriously hamper your enjoyment of the season. That virus is actually a group of viruses called noroviruses (they used to be called Norwalk-like viruses) that can shut down schools and bar visitors from nursing homes. Noroviruses occur year-round but are more common in the winter.

These little creatures can play havoc with your stomach (hence the nickname "stomach flu," though they're not actually a form of influenza), causing symptoms like:

nausea
vomiting
diarrhea
stomach cramps

and sometimes:

low-grade fever
chills
fatigue
headache
muscle aches

The symptoms often come on very suddenly.

For most of us, contracting a norovirus is just going to put a serious "cramp" in our style, and we can recover on our own in about 2 days. But for seniors, those with impaired immune systems, and young babies, the situation is more grave. These people need to see a doctor for proper treatment and monitoring.

And if you get a norovirus for Christmas, where did you get this lovely gift? Not down the chimney! You could have gotten it by shaking hands with someone, eating a salad that was made by a worker who didn't wash their hands properly, pressing an elevator button, or touching a doorknob - the virus remains on surfaces for up to 12 hours.

There is nothing you can take to prevent a norovirus from affecting you. Keep it away by washing your hands frequently and making good use of alcohol gel hand sanitizers. Also eat food that is prepared properly, and thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before eating.

If one of the viruses gets you, there are a few things you can do to make yourself feel better and to reduce the risk of giving it to others. Cancel your appointments for the next few days and ask someone to get you some anti-nausea medication (dimenhydrinate: Gravol® and other store brands), some anti-diarrhea medication (bismuth subsalicylate: Pepto-Bismol®; or loperamide: Imodium® and other store brands), and some pain killers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen) if you get a headache. You'll need rest and plenty of fluids. Tell your friends not to visit while you're recovering and for at least 3 days after; otherwise they may get it too - and you like your friends, don't you?

Once you have an anti-nausea medication in you, try to sip some water or juice to keep up your energy and prevent dehydration. Don't worry about food, as it will probably make you feel worse. If you do need to eat, stick to low-fat and low-sugar choices like dry toast or rice.

Don't worry. You'll be okay in a couple of days.

Stomach flu not all related to food poisoning

2011-07-29T21:43:00.001-07:00

The Fond du Lac County Health Department reminds residents of the euro area, gastrointestinal diseases - such as vomiting and diarrhea -. "Bad food" can easily from person to person and is not always the result of eating the so-called

The Ministry of Health has published a study of an incident where several people fell ill during a family celebration, which included meals and completed in restaurants.

"Norovirus as the cause of the outbreak is confirmed," Fond du Lac County Health Officer Diane Cappozzo said in a press release.

"Through interviews with patients and people who attended the event and we were able to show that man to man, not to eat, spread the virus to be determined."

Symptoms of norovirus infection generally include a sudden onset of nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, diarrhea. Headaches and mild fever may also accompany the disease.

The disease is usually short and to develop from 24 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus through contact with contaminated food or water or sick, and lasts from 24 to 60 hours.

People infected with norovirus usually recover within 2-3 days without serious damage to health or long-term, but some people with severe symptoms of dehydration and should seek medical attention.

The epidemic has emphasized that any person suffering or recovering from an episode of vomiting or diarrhea, and hand washing with soap and warm water after using the bathroom, before preparing or eating and after handling patients should be vigilant and children still in diapers.

How to Fast Relief from Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T21:40:00.000-07:00

Gastroenteritis or stomach bug is also known as stomach flu. Diarrhea is the main symptom of stomach pain. Other flu-like symptoms, including vomiting and stomach feel as if they were locked in the bathroom for hours to get excited about a person. Everything happens because of an infection.

Causes of diarrhea

Rotavirus is a leading role in diarrhea. Children under 5 are always affected by the virus and suffer for 5-7 days. This is usually accompanied by fever and abdominal pain. Adults in 1-2 days to avoid this type of virus.

Calicivirus is also a culprit in the stomach and affects all age groups of people. The virus causes vomiting, pain and fatigue associated with diarrhea.

Children under two years suffering from stomach flu adenoviruses. Diarrhea and vomiting associated with physical pain, the symptoms of this disease.

Astrovirus affects all age groups, particularly those with low body immunity. Occurs in the winter months and the symptoms are visible only after three days.

Better safe than sorry

The virus is contagious in nature. It 'best to avoid sharing drinks, food and utensils with a person suffering from a stomach flu. Fruits and vegetables in the contaminated area and contaminated water can also be grown easily spread the virus to others. The virus is everywhere, but we must be cautious and follow specific patterns. Only a few are not affected by the virus, but can transmit the virus to others. And because the body's metabolism and resistance to them. Some do and what is often influenced nursing homes, schools and kindergartens. Therefore, in such situations, it is important that the right medicine to take and in complete silence for a speedy recovery.

The treatment for the symptoms of stomach flu

Dehydration is the most common of all symptoms of gastroenteritis. It 'very important for the level of liquid equilibrium for the patient to drink fruit juice, water and electrolytes to do quite often. Avoid consumption of fried snack of milk products and caffeine, which can aggravate the disease. Alcohol should be postponed. It is advisable to get rid of things not right in her stomach with the problem. , To get rid of the virus, we need to have certain habits, like washing hands before eating, after using the toilet and changing diapers for the children at home to follow. Fruits and vegetables grown in contaminated areas and contaminated water also spread the disease to users. You can prevent good drainage and adequate sanitation methods for the arrival of this virus.

Get Rid of the Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)

2011-07-29T21:36:00.001-07:00

I came to the emergency room a couple of days with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis. I do not feel so bad, since elementary school, when the stomach flu, had a tradition each year and each student. Now, when I say the stomach flu, I'm not talking about influence. The application of stomach flu is technically an error. Confirmed Influenza is a respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses, and gastroenteritis caused by a viral infection is the cause of the intestine caused.

The symptoms that you wake up with the number of errors in the stomach, dizziness, vomiting, cold sweats, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain (stomach), and the suspicion that your stomach associated with losing the gods of China. So, in the sense of restoring this very frightening flashbacks to my youth, I present some of the recommendations of my doctor, to eliminate the influence of the stomach - oops - I mean, gastro-intestinal enteritis.

The elimination of the problem

Consult a doctor first step towards healing the stomach flu. You do not get to ask your doctor is a prescription medication to help gastroenteritis, but for medicine, flu-like symptoms, anti-spasmotics for colic, nausea, vomiting, fighting, blood and faeces, to ensure that there is something worse, such as worms. Gross.

It 'a good idea to drink a lot. Diarrhea, a symptom of stomach flu, which lead to dehydration very quickly. Even after drinking 8-10 glasses of water almost every day, the doctor said it was far from dehydration and electrolyte. So are some Gatorade in bulk. Do not fight the soup of shit, let him go easily. The body must get rid of these things.

Simplify your diet will help to treat gastroenteritis. Keep your diet to clear liquids and low for the first 24 hours (juice, water, fruit juices). If you feel better after 24 hours, in order to staples such as rice, white bread, apple and banana. Try citrus fruits, avoid fatty foods, dairy products, tomatoes, alcohol, coffee and soft drinks. In other words, do not go to McDonalds.

When the stomach flu, severe pain, such as acute gastroenteritis are not afraid to take painkillers. Painkillers with acetaminophen, like Tylenol and Excedrin are good because they do not bother my stomach as easily as drugs such as ibuprofen, Aleve, and aspirin. If you have a very upset stomach, ask your doctor oxycodone. This puts off the pain, help you sleep and it's fun for impotence.

Suppose a person with gastroenteritis, but the rest is, one of the reasons doctors to stay, why is the nutritional value is very low if you have a stomach flu, even if Miller Lite cans of Campbell's soup in a baseball game, where her. Your body runs on reserves and do not need calories and proteins, which are used to feed your immune system may be missed.

The medical treatment of gastroenteritis

At this point you should understand that there is not much for the stomach flu or gastroenteritis, which only treat symptoms and wait to die to do. Games will not die, but you have to wait "before you can get rid of the stomach to do. Nothing against antibiotics to treat a stomach flu. If anything, worse yet, getting antibiotics, because antibiotics kill the good bacteria in the gut, in to save susceptible to severe abdominal cramps. to Gatorade, Tylenol, and a season or two of your favorite TV programs.

If the symptoms disappear within 48 hours, or if you have severe pain, localized, or if you are a high fever, or if you notice blood in vomit or faeces is a good idea to notify your doctor immediately.

Is It a Stomach Flu or Influenza?

2011-07-29T21:33:00.000-07:00

Do you know the difference between stomach flu and influenza? "Stomach flu" is a popular term but not the true medical diagnosis. The proper medical term for stomach flu is gastroenteritis.

Sometimes people mistake symptoms of stomach flu or gastroenteritis for the viral infection we commonly call "flu," which has symptoms of fever, congestion, muscle aches, and fatigue. Learn more about stomach flu and influenza so you can recognize flu symptoms and seek proper treatment.

How Does Stomach Flu Differ From Influenza?

Stomach flu actually refers to gastroenteritis or irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines (the gastrointestinal tract). Gastroenteritis may be caused by a virus, bacteria, parasites in spoiled food or unclean water, or another trigger such as lactose intolerance, which causes a reaction to dairy products.

Influenza (flu), on the other hand, is a viral infection that mimics a cold except that it starts forcefully with symptoms of fatigue, fever, and respiratory congestion. While more than 100 different virus types can cause a common cold, only influenza virus types A, B, and C cause flu. More severe cases of influenza can lead to life-threatening illnesses such as pneumonia.

In addition, while antibiotics can treat a bacterial infection, antibiotics cannot treat influenza because flu is caused by a virus.

What Are the Symptoms of Stomach Flu?

Symptoms of gastroenteritis or stomach flu include abdominal cramps, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. You may also have fever, headache, and swollen lymph glands, depending on the type of bug that causes it.

In severe cases of gastroenteritis, loss of bodily fluid can result in dehydration, a life-threatening condition that needs medical attention. Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, light-headedness, increased thirst, dry or sticky mucous membranes in the mouth, lack of normal elasticity of the skin, decreased urine output, and decreased tears.

You can avoid dehydration by continuing to drink fluids and gradually eating a bland diet such as the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and dry toast). A bland diet is easily digested and is unlikely to irritate your sensitive gastrointestinal system.

What Causes a Stomach Flu?

There are many causes of stomach flu, including bacteria such as E. coli, Campylobacter, Shigella, and Salmonella. Viruses can also cause stomach flu and are responsible for 30% to 40% of gastroenteritis cases in children. Common stomach flu viruses include norovirus or Norwalk-like virus, adenovirus, rotavirus, calicivirus, and astrovirus. Stomach viruses are notorious for spreading rapidly because of poor hand washing.

While not as common, parasites such as giardia and cryptosporidium can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. Water-borne parasites are common in underdeveloped parts of the world that have unsanitary water supplies. It is recommended that travelers stick to bottled water to avoid water-borne parasites -- a potential cause of stomach flu.

Some foods may irritate your stomach and also cause gastroenteritis. Reaction to dairy products in someone with lactose intolerance is the most common example. Severe reactions to seafood is another example.

A lack of good hygiene can result in a stomach flu. For instance, improper hand washing after using the bathroom or after changing a baby's diaper can spread the infectious bug from person to person. Many doctors call stomach flu "a family affair" because it is so highly contagious and usually goes through all members of a family.

Who's at Risk for Stomach Flu?

Those at high risk for stomach flu include pregnant women, infants, undernourished and immune-compromised people, and older adults.

In addition, the severity of infectious gastroenteritis depends on your immune system's ability to resist the infection. Electrolytes (these include essential elements of sodium and potassium) may be lost as you vomit and experience diarrhea.

When Should You Call the Doctor About Stomach Flu?

If you experience symptoms of stomach flu and are weak and dizzy, you may be dehydrated. If you cannot drink fluids but continue to lose fluids through fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, you should call your doctor. If you are sleepy or unaware, you should definitely be taken to a doctor or hospital's emergency department. Other signs that warrant medical treatment include:

blood in the vomit or stool
dehydration (check for little to no urination, extreme thirst, lack of tears, and dry mouth)
fever higher than 101 degrees
swollen abdomen or abdominal pain in the right lower part of the abdomen
vomiting that lasts more than 48 hours

Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T03:13:00.000-07:00

Stomach flu is often called “intestinal flu.” It’s an illness caused by a virus, and it produces different symptoms in different people. What people call stomach flu is usually marked by nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and a general sick feeling.

How to Treat Stomach Flu Symptoms

First, you need to know that antibiotics, such as penicillin, don’t work on flu because antibiotics only kill bacteria. The flu is caused by a virus. Your body’s defenses do the best job in fighting the illness.

You can help your body fight the flu by getting as much rest as possible. Do light activities if you must do something, but rest as soon as you get tired. Stay home from work, unless your symptoms are mild. You’ll recover faster that way, and you won’t risk infecting others at work.

You should also drink enough fluids to avoid dehydration — but that takes some care when your symptoms are nausea and diarrhea. So let’s cover what you can do to relieve these symptoms.

What to Eat When You Have Stomach Flu

When your stomach is upset, the last thing it needs is food. If you feel nauseated, give your stomach a rest from food. Don’t eat or drink anything for about two hours. If you are vomiting, don’t eat or drink anything for about four hours. Then begin taking small sips of water. If you can keep the water down, gradually work up to small amounts — half-a-cup or less — of Gatorade, flat ginger ale, or half-water half-grape juice (don’t drink juice if you are also having diarrhea). Do this for four to eight hours. You can flatten ginger ale by stirring it to let the bubbles escape. If you are keeping down liquids, and feel like it, try eating saltine crackers or dry toast. Avoid sugary drinks, orange juice and other acidic beverages, and foods that are high in sugar, greasy or spicy.

You can also try the anti-nausea drug Dramamine if you are sure that you are not pregnant or allergic to it. Dramamine is not safe to take during pregnancy. This non-prescription medication is available at drug stores, and should be used as directed. If these measures don’t control your nausea, you should contact your healthcare provider. You should also call your healthcare provider if you take daily medication for any chronic medical condition and the nausea prevents you from taking your medicine.

Another common symptom of stomach flu is diarrhea. If you develop diarrhea, don’t eat or drink anything for four hours. Then start with sips of water and work up gradually, over several hours, to small amounts of ginger ale, Jell-O, Gatorade, or bouillon (clear soup). Again, you can also try saltines or dry toast. But don’t eat fruit juices or other solid foods for 24 to 48 hours. These foods will just stimulate the diarrhea. Sometimes dairy products also stimulate diarrhea after the initial flu, and therefore, it may be wise to stay away from dairy products for a few weeks.

After the first 24 to 48 hours, gradually resume eating solid foods like bananas, applesauce, or dry toast. Meanwhile, you can try the non-prescription medication Donagel or Kaopectate, as directed on the label, to help control diarrhea.

With diarrhea, you should call your healthcare provider if you don’t improve after three days — or if the diarrhea gets worse. Also call if your diarrhea is bloody, if you have severe abdominal cramps associated with nausea, vomiting and fever, or if you are sick after having recently returned from a trip to another country.

The stomach flu virus is contagious and can spread to family and friends

Viral gastroenteritis is contagious. The viruses that cause stomach flu are spread through close contact with infected persons (for example, by sharing food, water, or eating utensils of someone who has the stomach flu). So don’t let anyone eat or drink after you. You can also spread the virus by not washing your hands after cleaning up vomit or diarrhea, or after using the bathroom. So the best way to prevent the spread of the virus is washing your hands often and not spreading the virus for others.

Key points about stomach flu:

    * Stomach flu can have different symptoms, but the common ones are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
    * Only your body can cure this condition, but you can help it do the job by getting plenty of rest.
    * For nausea and vomiting, stop eating for two to four hours, then gradually introduce small amounts of water and other fluids. Avoid most solid foods for 24 hours.
    * For diarrhea, don’t eat or drink for four hours; then gradually increase your intake of fluids. Avoid most solid foods and fruit juices for 24 to 48 hours.
    * The stomach flu virus is contagious – don’t let anyone eat or drink after you.
    * If your stomach flu symptoms are severe, unusual, or persistent, call your healthcare provider for advice.

Call your doctor or go to the emergency room if you have bloody diarrhea, if you become dehydrated (feel weak, lightheaded or dizzy, or your heart is racing), if you’ve been vomiting for more than 2 days or if you’re vomiting blood.

* This Information for Adults Only.

Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)

2011-07-29T03:10:00.000-07:00

What is gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) is inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, involving the stomach, intestines, or both; usually resulting in diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea and possibly vomiting. Gastroenteritis is frequently termed "stomach flu" or "gastric flu" because the most frequent cause of gastroenteritis is viral. However, this loose terminology confuses some people because influenza viruses (flu viruses) do not cause gastroenteritis.

Gastroenteritis also can be confusing to people because gastroenteritis itself is considered a disease, but gastroenteritis can also be considered a symptom of other diseases. For example, a person who has the symptoms of gastroenteritis and eventually develops bloody diarrhea is usually not diagnosed with gastroenteritis, but with a specific disease such as shigellosis. Unfortunately, there are many specific diseases that manifest with symptoms of gastroenteritis, usually early in the disease process.

To complicate things even more, often confusion is generated when the term gastroenteritis is modified by words like "mild" or "severe." "Severe gastroenteritis" is a non-specific term that usually means different things to different investigators. The meaning is usually implied by the disease process that is being discussed. For example, if the context of an article about a viral cause of gastroenteritis, it often means diarrhea that causes dehydration; while another article about a bacterial cause of gastroenteritis it may mean bloody diarrhea with fever.

The best way to sort out this non-specific terminology associated with gastroenteritis is for authors and health care practitioners to define what they mean by gastroenteritis and its modifying terms. While there may be disagreement about the terms, at least their meaning will be clear to the readers of individual articles. Consequently, for this article, gastroenteritis will mean the short-term (lasting about 2 to 5 days and resolution, sometime over an additional few days) occurrence of symptoms that may include some or all of the following:

Non-bloody diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting (occasional, less than 48 hours)
Abdominal cramping (intermittent, usually relieved by a bowel movement)

Other symptoms may develop such as a mild fever (about 100 F, 37.7 C), mild chills, occasionally a headache, and/or muscle aches, and a feeling of being tired. All of the above symptoms may develop into severe gastroenteritis which means for this article, dehydration, which may be life-threatening, especially in children.

People with symptoms of diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting that lasts more than five days, and often may have additional symptoms of fever (greater than 101 F, 38.3 C), malaise, dehydration, and sepsis, for this article, will not be considered to have gastroenteritis. However, people with such problems will be considered to have symptoms of gastroenteritis that are related to a specific disease, for example, shigellosis.

Not all investigators will agree with this designation and consider bloody diarrhea, vomiting more than 48 hours, fever higher than 101 F (38.3 C), dehydration, and relatively constant abdominal pain as severe gastroenteritis. However, these symptoms are not frequently associated with gastroenteritis or stomach flu that does not run a limited course, and does not resolve without professional or medical treatment, and are more often associated with other specific diseases, most of which require medical care.

Most children and adults diagnosed with shigellosis, E. coli 0157:H7 infections, salmonellosis, and other diseases are usually not diagnosed as having severe gastroenteritis or severe stomach flu. Readers may wonder why then, should such pathogens be listed as causes of gastroenteritis. The answer is simple. The pathogens are listed because in many people, the pathogens produce only symptoms of gastroenteritis and do not go on to develop worse symptoms, often because an otherwise healthy person self-limits the infection. Not to list them would not give an accurate summation of the causes of gastroenteritis.

What causes gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis, as defined above, has many causes, but the most frequent causes are viral and bacterial. Other causes vary greatly, such as parasites, toxins, food allergies, and medications. Many of the causes of gastroenteritis actually go on to develop additional gastrointestinal symptoms that are considered specific diseases themselves. The following lists the major causes of gastroenteritis, and also lists the diseases that have symptoms of gastroenteritis as part of their specific disease process; this list is not all-inclusive but does include the large majority of causes of gastroenteritis that may be encountered worldwide.

Viruses

    * Norovirus: causes about 50% to 70% of all gastroenteritis in adults, the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the US.
    * Rotavirus: common cause of diarrhea in infants, occasionally producing dehydration
    * Adenovirus: usually respiratory, but some strains cause gastroenteritis symptoms
    * Astrovirus: common cause of diarrhea in infants
    * Sapovirus: common cause of mild gastroenteritis in children

Bacteria

    * Staphylococcus: - a frequent cause of diarrhea and abdominal cramps; disease - Staphylococcus food poisoning
    * Escherichia coli: food poisoning; diseases - E. coli infections, especially strain 0157:H7 that may cause HUS (hemolytic-uremic syndrome) or TTP (thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura)
    * Salmonella: food poisoning; disease - salmonellosis
    * Shigella: food poisoning; disease - shigellosis
    * Clostridium difficile: bacterial overgrowth and toxin production due to antibiotic suppression of competing intestinal bacteria; disease - C. difficile toxin production
    * Listeria: usual source is contaminated dairy products; disease - listeriosis
    * Campylobacter: contaminated dairy foods
    * Vibrio: contaminated drinking water and seafood; disease - cholera
    * Bacillus: usual source is contaminated rice
    * Aeromonas: seafood contamination
    * Yersenia: pork meat contamination
    * Plesiomonas: oysters and other seafood

Parasites

    * Giardia: common source of diarrhea from contaminated water; disease - giardiasis
    * Cryptosporidium: food, water sources of diarrhea; disease - cryptosporidiosis
    * Entamoeba: contaminated water; disease - amebiasis

Other causes of gastroenteritis

    * Food allergies: many types; eggs, nuts, milk, and shellfish are fairly common
    * Antibiotics: many antibiotics allow bacterial/fungal overgrowth (see Clostridium difficile previously mentioned)
    * Toxins: algal toxin in shellfish, heavy metal toxins. (aluminum, cadmium, arsenic, lead, and mercury) and others
    * Medications: side effects of many medications are diarrhea

What are the symptoms of gastroenteritis?

The symptoms of gastroenteritis are:

    * diarrhea,
    * nausea,
    * abdominal cramps, and
    * vomiting.

Not all affected individuals will develop all symptoms. Some people also may develop a mild fever of about 100 F (37.7 C). Most symptoms will resolve in about 2 to 5 days. Gastroenteritis may cause dehydration during this short time period, mainly in children or debilitated adults. In this article, gastroenteritis with dehydration is considered severe gastroenteritis. For videos of how a child may appear with dehydration, see the link in the references section of this article.

People with symptoms of diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting that last longer than 5 days, and often may have additional symptoms of fever (greater than 101 F, 38.3 C), malaise, dehydration, sepsis, or additional symptoms, for this article, will not be considered to have gastroenteritis. Not all investigators or clinicians will agree with this designation and consider bloody diarrhea, vomiting more than 48 hours, fever higher than 101 F, dehydration, and relatively constant abdominal pain as symptoms of severe gastroenteritis. However, since these symptoms are non-specific and are more frequently associated as part of a spectrum of symptoms that occur with a specific disease that needs medical care, often quickly, these symptoms are considered as part of those that may occur with a number of specific diseases.

Is gastroenteritis contagious?

The majority of causes of gastroenteritis are contagious (mainly viral, bacterial, and parasitic). In some instances where the cause of the gastroenteritis is not a pathogen (for example, food allergies, toxins that are ingested), gastroenteritis is not contagious.

Is gastroenteritis a serious illness?

Most adults with gastroenteritis (as defined previously) are uncomfortable but do not have a serious illness. This is not always true for children and infants, or some adults (elderly, immune depressed) because they dehydrate rapidly. If dehydration develops and is not rapidly reversed, this symptom can make an infection that usually resolves on its own without medical treatment into a serious illness.

How does food get contaminated by gastroenteritis viruses?

Food is easily contaminated by people who prepare or handle food, and have viral gastroenteritis. Most often, failure to adequately wash hands or to clean off foods (for example, vegetables and fruits) that may be contaminated with sewage or untreated water, allow viral contamination that causes gastroenteritis. Additionally, the viruses can be viable for hours to days when they contaminate surfaces like handrails, doorknobs, and other items. This situation of contamination is essentially the same for many of the bacterial and other pathogens that can cause bacterial gastroenteritis.

Who is at risk for gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis is a very common disease; most people are at some risk to encounter the wide-spread causes (mainly viral and bacterial). This risk is due to poor hygiene of a few people with the disease that may be encountered frequently in daily living (for example, infants, children, or some food handlers). Some people have higher risk for infection; for example, individuals on cruise ships or those that live or work in crowded conditions like child care centers, dorms, or barracks, because of the higher chance that an infected person will come in contact with many other people, and rapidly spread the causative agent.

Infants, children and some adults (elderly, immunodepressed) are at risk for developing dehydration with gastroenteritis because they may lose fluids more rapidly than normal adults. Women who are pregnant are not at a great risk if they stay well hydrated; if they do not, they may put themselves and their baby at risk for complications of dehydration such as kidney failure, electrolyte abnormalities, shock and fetal death.

When should the doctor be called for gastroenteritis?

Because gastroenteritis, as defined above, usually runs a limited course and resolves on its own without professional or medical treatment, and most people will not need to contact a doctor. However, if a person begins to show signs of dehydration, especially if the person is unwilling or unable to adequately rehydrate orally at home, medical care should be sought. Signs and symptoms of dehydration may include:

    * decreased or no urine production,
    * dry mucus membranes,
    * dry mouth or skin,
    * inability to produce tears,
    * weakness,
    * lightheadedness, and
    * low blood pressure.

If gastroenteritis symptoms last more than about 5 days, increase in severity (fever of 101 F or higher, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, constant abdominal pain) or other symptoms develop, the affected individual should seek medical care. The person may have had gastroenteritis symptoms, but may have a disease more serious gastroenteritis that does not run a limited course and does not resolve without professional or medical treatment.

How is gastroenteritis diagnosed?

Gastroenteritis is most often presumptively diagnosed simply by the symptoms. Because gastroenteritis is a disease that usually runs a limited course that resolves on its own without medical treatment, the large majority of patients are never seen or diagnosed by a health care practitioner. There are no specific tests for gastroenteritis. However, during outbreaks like those seen on cruise ships, viral and bacterial cultures or PCR and other immunologically-based tests can eventually identify the causative pathogen. However, by the time this identification occurs, most of the patients have begun to recover. When gastroenteritis symptoms become severe, most public health officials and clinicians run such tests to identify the causative agent.

What is the treatment for gastroenteritis?

Although most people with gastroenteritis require no formal treatment, the key to a more rapid and safe recovery is good hydration. Home treatment consists of adequate fluid intake so that dehydration is prevented. The recommended fluids are clear fluids (Pedialyte, especially for young children, Gatorade, Powerade, and other similar drinks) but not fruit juices or milk. If dehydration occurs, the affected individual should be evaluated by a health care practitioner, who is likely to begin IV rehydration, the treatment of choice for rapid rehydration.

Medications may be prescribed to reduce the symptoms of gastroenteritis, for example, promethazine (Phenergan), prochlorperazine (Compazine) or ondansetron (Zofran) may be prescribed to reduce vomiting. Some physicians suggest using these only as a suppository (or IV) since patients frequently just vomit the pills up. Others may prescribe diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil) or loperamide (Imodium) to slow diarrhea. Many clinicians simply suggest no treatment for gastroenteritis symptoms as all of the drugs have side effects, and the clinicians figure that if the patient stays well hydrated, the symptoms will soon stop anyway.

Once the gastroenteritis symptoms abate, especially vomiting, clinicians recommend a BRAT diet (bananas, rice, apples and toast) for a day or two before beginning a regular diet.

Individuals that have more serious symptoms, or other symptoms in addition to gastroenteritis need to be evaluated, diagnosed, and treated by a physician because the patient will likely have a specific disease that will need treatment. The treatment will depend on the cause of the illness (for example, salmonellosis or Clostridium difficile toxin). Administration of antibiotics and other treatments may be contraindicated for some of these diseases, so an accurate diagnosis is important.

What are the complications of gastroenteritis?

Most individuals do not experience any complications and make a complete recovery. The major complication for some individuals is dehydration; infants, children, the elderly, and immunodepressed are at higher risk for this complication. In many third world countries, hydration of infants is difficult. Consequently, there are many infant deaths worldwide due to dehydration caused by gastroenteritis.

Can gastroenteritis be prevented?

Because there are so many different causes of gastroenteritis, the ability to prevent the disease is related to the cause. Some causes are easier to prevent than others. For example, although viral causes are very contagious, one major viral pathogen, rotavirus, has a vaccine that has markedly reduced the incidence of rotavirus in the US pediatric population. Unfortunately, vaccines for other viral causes, although being researched, are not currently available. The only vaccine used against bacterial causes is Vibrio cholerae vaccine, but it is not readily available.

However, there are several general steps people can take to prevent or reduce the chance of getting gastroenteritis from almost every cause. These are as follows:

    * Hand washing, especially before eating and after any close association with an infected person, or items (clothing, bedding, toys) they have touched
    * Launder items daily that infected persons wear
    * Avoid as much direct contact with infected individuals as possible
    * Do not eat undercooked foods, especially meats like hamburger
    * Do not eat or drink raw foods or untreated water
    * Do not drink any untreated or unpasteurized fluids, especially milk
    * Thoroughly wash any produce before eating
    * While traveling, avoid all raw foods and ice; drink only from sealed bottled products and use bottled water for tooth brushing

These methods can reduce the chance of getting gastroenteritis from most of the known causes, but no method offers complete protection.

What is the prognosis of gastroenteritis?

In most people, the prognosis (outlook) for complete recovery is excellent, as long as the person keeps well hydrated. Because infants, children, and adults who are elderly or immunodepressed, usually dehydrate faster than healthy adults and sometimes are more difficult to rehydrate orally, their prognosis can range from excellent to poor, depending on how dehydrated they become and how effective are the attempts to rehydrate them.

The prognosis for those patients that develop gastroenteritis symptoms as part of a specific disease process (for example, shigellosis) vary from good to poor, depending on the severity of the specific disease process.

Gastroenteritis At A Glance

    * Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach, intestines or both.
    * There are many causes of gastroenteritis; the most numerous cases are caused by viruses, followed by bacteria and other agents.
    * The major symptoms of gastroenteritis are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps; symptoms usually self-resolve in 2 to 5 days.
    * The majority of gastroenteritis disease is very contagious, especially those caused by viruses and bacteria; a few causes of gastroenteritis are not contagious.
    * Gastroenteritis usually is not a serious illness unless the affected person becomes dehydrated.
    * Most food, fluids, and other items become contaminated with causative agents of gastroenteritis from direct or indirect contact with a person that has the disease.
    * Most individuals have some risk of encountering gastroenteritis; people that live in close contact with others (for example, live on a ship, in a dorm, or barracks) have a higher risk.
    * People who become dehydrated should seek medical care; if the symptoms become worse or are accompanied with other symptoms and/or last longer than about 5 days, the person should seek medical care as they may have a more serious disease.
    * Gastroenteritis is frequently presumptively diagnosed by the symptoms; infrequently, culture and identification, usually with immunological tests, of the causative agent is done during outbreaks of the disease.
    * Most people self-limit gastroenteritis in about 2 to 5 days and require no treatment as long as they remain well hydrated. IV hydration may be needed by some people. Some clinicians treat the symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea with medications, others do not.
    * The major complication of gastroenteritis is dehydration.
    * Hand washing, good hygiene, washing produce, cooking foods adequately, and drinking only treated or pasteurized fluids can help prevent gastroenteritis.
    * The prognosis for gastroenteritis is usually excellent, unless dehydration occurs.

Stomach Flu (Viral gastroenteritis)

2011-07-29T03:05:00.000-07:00

Viral gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) is inflammation of the stomach and intestines from a virus. The infection can lead to diarrhea and vomiting. It is sometimes called the "stomach flu."

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Viral gastroenteritis is a leading cause of severe diarrhea in both adults and children. Many types of viruses can cause gastroenteritis. The most common ones are:

Astrovirus

Enteric adenovirus

Norovirus (also called Norwalk-like virus). It is common among school-age children.

Rotavirus, the leading cause of severe gastroenteritis in children. It can also infect adults exposed to children with the virus. Outbreaks may also occur in nursing homes.

These viruses are often found in contaminated food or drinking water. Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis usually appear within 4 - 48 hours after exposure to the contaminated food or water.

Those with the highest risk for severe gastroenteritis include the young, the elderly, and people who have suppressed immune systems.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain

Diarrhea

Nausea

Vomiting

Other symptoms may include:

Chills

Clammy skin

Excessive sweating

Fever

Joint stiffness

Leakage (incontinence) of stool

Muscle pain

Poor feeding

Vomiting blood (very rare)

Weight loss

Signs and tests

Your health care provider will look for signs that the body does not have enough water (dehydration). These include:

Dry or sticky mouth

Lethargic or comatose (severe dehydration)

Low blood pressure

Low or no urine output; concentrated urine appears dark yellow

Markedly sunken soft spots (fontanelles) on the top of an infant's head

No tears

Sunken eyes

Tests that examine stool samples may be used to identify the specific virus. This is usually not needed for viral gastroenteritis. A stool culture may be done to identify a bacterial cause for diarrhea.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to prevent dehydration by making sure the body has as much water and fluids as it should. Fluids and electrolytes (salt and minerals) lost through diarrhea or vomiting must be replaced by drinking extra fluids. Even if you are able to eat, you should still drink extra fluids between meals.

Older children and adults can drink sports beverages such as Gatorade, but these should not be used for children. Instead, use the electrolyte and fluid replacement solutions or freezer pops available in food and drug stores.

Do NOT use fruit juice (including apple juice), sodas or cola (flat or bubbly), Jell-O, or broth. All of these have a lot of sugar, which makes diarrhea worse, and they don't replace lost minerals.

Drink small amounts of fluid (2-4 oz.) every 30-60 minutes, rather than trying to force large amounts at one time, which can cause vomiting. Use a teaspoon or syringe for an infant or small child.

Breast milk or formula can be continued along with extra fluids. You do NOT need to switch to a soy formula.

Food may be offered frequently in small amounts. Suggested foods include:

Cereals, bread, potatoes, lean meats

Plain yogurt, bananas, fresh apples

Vegetables

People with diarrhea who are unable to drink fluids because of nausea may need intravenous (directly into a vein) fluids. This is especially true in small children.

Antibiotics do not work for viruses.

Drugs to slow down the amount of diarrhea (anti-diarrheal medications) should not be given without first talking with your health care provider. They may cause the infection to last longer. DO NOT give these anti-diarrheal medications to children unless directed to do so by a health care provider.

People taking water pills (diuretics) who develop diarrhea may be told by their health care provider to stop taking the diuretic during the acute episode. However, DO NOT stop taking any prescription medicine without first talking to your doctor.

The risk of dehydration is greatest in infants and young children, so parents should closely monitor the number of wet diapers changed per day when their child is sick.

Expectations (prognosis)

Most infections will go away on their own. Children may become severely ill from dehydration caused by diarrhea.

Complications

Rotavirus causes severe gastroenteritis in infants and young children. Severe dehydration and death can occur in this age group.

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if diarrhea persists for more than several days or if dehydration occurs. You should also contact your doctor if you or your child has these symptoms:

Blood in the stool

Confusion

Dizziness

Dry mouth

Feeling faint

Nausea

No tears when crying

No urine for 8 hours or more

Sunken appearance to the eyes

Sunken soft spot on an infant's head (fontanelle)

Prevention
Most infectious organisms are transmitted by unwashed hands. The best way to prevent viral gastroenteritis is to handle food properly and wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet.

Vaccination to prevent severe rotavirus infection is recommended for infants starting at age 2 months.

Stomach Flu

2011-07-29T03:03:00.000-07:00

Stomach Flu (also known as gastric flu, gastroenteritis, and stomach virus, although unrelated to influenza) is marked by severe inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract involving both the stomach and small intestine resulting in acute diarrhea and vomiting. It can be transferred by contact with contaminated food and water. The inflammation is caused most often[citation needed] by an infection from certain viruses or less often[citation needed] by bacteria, their toxins (e.g. SEB), parasites, or an adverse reaction to something in the diet or medication.

At least 50% of cases of gastroenteritis resulting from foodborne illness are caused by norovirus.[1] Another 20% of cases, and the majority of severe cases in children, are due to rotavirus. Other significant viral agents include adenovirus and astrovirus.

Different species of bacteria can cause gastroenteritis, including Salmonella, Shigella, Staphylococcus, Campylobacter jejuni, Clostridium, Escherichia coli, Yersinia, Vibrio cholerae, and others. Some sources of the infection are improperly prepared food, reheated meat dishes, seafood, dairy, and bakery products. Each organism causes slightly different symptoms but all result in diarrhea. Colitis, inflammation of the large intestine, may also be present.

Risk factors include consumption of improperly prepared foods or contaminated water and travel or residence in areas of poor sanitation. It is also common for river swimmers to become infected during times of rain as a result of contaminated runoff water.

Classification

Infectious gastroenteritis is caused by a wide variety of bacteria and viruses. It is important to consider infectious gastroenteritis as a diagnosis per exclusionem. A few loose stools and vomiting may be the result of systemic infection such as pneumonia, septicemia, urinary tract infection and even meningitis. Surgical conditions such as appendicitis, intussusception and, rarely, even Hirschsprung's disease may mislead the clinician. Endocrine disorders (e.g. thyrotoxicosis and Addison's disease) are disorders that can cause diarrhea. Also, pancreatic insufficiency, short bowel syndrome, Whipple's disease, coeliac disease, and laxative abuse should be excluded as possibilities.

Bacterial gastroenteritis

For a list of bacteria causing gastroenteritis, see above. Pseudomembranous colitis is an important cause of diarrhea in patients often recently treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics. Traveler's diarrhea is usually a type of bacterial gastroenteritis.

If gastroenteritis in a child is severe enough to require admission to a hospital, then it is important to distinguish between bacterial and viral infections. Bacteria like, Shigella and Campylobacter, and parasites like Giardia can be treated with antibiotics.

Viral gastroenteritis

Viruses causing gastroenteritis include rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus and astrovirus. Viruses do not respond to antibiotics and infected children usually make a full recovery after a few days. Children admitted to hospital with gastroenteritis routinely are tested for rotavirus A to gather surveillance data relevant to the epidemiological effects of rotavirus vaccination programs. These children are routinely tested also for norovirus, which is extraordinarily infectious and requires special isolation procedures to avoid transmission to other patients. Other methods, electron microscopy and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, are used in research laboratories.

Symptoms and signs

Gastroenteritis often involves stomach pain or spasms, diarrhea and/or vomiting, with noninflammatory infection of the upper small bowel, or inflammatory infections of the colon.

The condition is usually of acute onset, normally lasting 1–6 days, and is self-limiting.

Nausea and vomiting
Dehydration
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Fever
Headaches
Abnormal flatulence
Abdominal pain
Abdominal cramps
Bloody stools (dysentery - suggesting infection by amoeba, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella or some pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli)
Fainting and Weakness
Heartburn

The main contributing factors include poor feeding in infants. Diarrhea is common, and may be followed by vomiting. Viral diarrhea usually causes frequent watery stools, whereas blood stained diarrhea may be indicative of bacterial colitis. In some cases, even when the stomach is empty, bile can be vomited up.

A child with gastroenteritis may be lethargic, suffer lack of sleep, run a low fever, have signs of dehydration (which include dry mucous membranes), tachycardia, reduced skin turgor, skin color discoloration, sunken fontanelles, sunken eyeballs, darkened eye circles, glassy eyes, poor perfusion and ultimately shock.

Diagnosis

Gastroenteritis is diagnosed based on symptoms, a complete medical history and a physical examination. An accurate medical history may provide valuable information on the existence or inexistence of similar symptoms in other members of the patient's family or friends. The duration, frequency, and description of the patient's bowel movements and if they experience vomiting are also relevant and these question are usually asked by a physician during the examination.

No specific diagnostic tests are required in most patients with simple gastroenteritis. If symptoms including fever, bloody stool and diarrhea persist for two weeks or more, examination of stool for Clostridium difficile may be advisable along with cultures for bacteria including Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter and enterotoxic Escherichia coli. Microscopy for parasites, ova and cysts may also be helpful.[citation needed]

A complete medical history may be helpful in diagnosing gastroenteritis. A complete and accurate medical history of the patient includes information on travel history, exposure to poisons or other irritants, diet change, food preparation habits or storage and medications. Patients who travel may be exposed to E. Coli infections or parasite infections contacted from beverages or food. Swimming in contaminated water or drinking from suspicious fresh water such as mountain streams or wells may indicate infection from Giardia - an organism found in water that causes diarrhea.

Food poisoning must be considered in cases when the patient was exposed to undercooked or improperly stored food. Depending on the type of bacteria that is causing the condition, the reactions appear in 2 to 72 hours. Detecting the specific infectious agent is required in order to establish a proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.

The doctor may want to find whether the patient has been using broad-spectrum or multiple antibiotics in their recent past. If so, they could be the cause of an irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.

During the physical examination, the doctor will look for other possible causes of the infection. Conditions such as appendicitis, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis or diverticulitis may cause similar symptoms but a physical examination will reveal a specific tenderness in the abdomen which is not present in gastroenteritis.

Diagnosing gastroenteritis is mainly an exclusion procedure. Therefore in rare cases when the symptoms are not enough to diagnose gastroenteritis, several tests may be performed in order to rule out other gastrointestinal disorders. These include rectal examinations, complete blood count, electrolytes and kidney function tests. However, when the symptoms are conclusive, no tests apart from the stool tests are required to correctly diagnose gastroenteritis especially if the patient has traveled to at-risk areas.

Prevention

Since 2000, the implementation of a rotavirus vaccine has decreased the number of cases of diarrhea due to rotavirus in the United States.

Gastroenteritis may be prevented through immunization. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved in 2006 a rotavirus vaccine called Rotateq that may be given to infants aged 6 to 32 weeks to prevent getting infected with viral gastroenteritis. The vaccines may however have side effects that are similar to the mild flu symptoms.

Different types of vaccinations are available for Salmonella typhi and Vibrio cholera and which may be administered to people who intend traveling in at-risk areas. However, the vaccines that are currently available are effective only on rotavirual gastroenteritis.

Doctors recommend that food be properly cooked and stored to prevent gastroenteritis. Avoid suspect food or drink. Thoroughly wash both hands before eating and after using the bathroom or changing diapers. Viral gastroenteritis is a highly contagious disease and thus avoiding crowded spaces such as markets, theaters or shopping centers may also help in preventing infection for those who have weak resistance. Bleaching soiled laundry and household surfaces may help prevent spreading bacteria.

Management

Gastroenteritis is usually an acute and self-limited disease that does not require pharmacological therapy.[18] The objective of treatment is to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Oral rehydration is the preferred method of replacing these losses in children with mild to moderate dehydration.[19] Metoclopramide and ondansetron however may be helpful in children.

Rehydration

The primary treatment of gastroenteritis in both children and adults is rehydration, i.e., replenishment of water and electrolytes lost in the stools. This is preferably achieved by giving the person oral rehydration therapy (ORT) although intravenous delivery may be required if a decreased level of consciousness or an ileus is present. Complex-carbohydrate-based oral rehydration therapy such as those made from wheat or rice may be superior to simple sugar-based ORS.

Sugary drinks such as soft drinks and fruit juice are not recommended for gastroenteritis in children under 5 years of age as they may make the diarrhea worse. Plain water may be used if specific ORS are unavailable or not palatable.

Diet

It is recommended that breastfed infants continue to be nursed on demand and that formula-fed infants should continue their usual formula immediately after rehydration with oral rehydration solutions. Lactose-free or lactose-reduced formulas usually are not necessary. Children receiving semisolid or solid foods should continue to receive their usual diet during episodes of diarrhea. Foods high in simple sugars should be avoided because the osmotic load might worsen diarrhea; therefore substantial amounts of soft drinks, juice, and other high simple sugar foods should be avoided. The practice of withholding food is not recommended and immediate normal feeding is encouraged. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast and tea) is no longer recommended, as it contains insufficient nutrients and has no benefit over normal feeding.

Medications

Antiemetics

Antiemetic drugs may be helpful for vomiting in children. Ondansetron has some utility with a single dose associated with less need for intravenous fluids, fewer hospitalizations, and decreased vomiting. Metoclopramide also might be helpful. However there was an increased number of children who returned and were subsequently admitted in those treated with ondansetron. The intravenous preparation of ondansetron may be given orally.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are not usually used for gastroenteritis, although they are sometimes used if symptoms are severe (such as dysentery) or a susceptible bacterial cause is isolated or suspected. If antibiotics are decided on, a fluoroquinolone or macrolide is often used. Pseudomembranous colitis, usually caused by antibiotics use, is managed by discontinuing the causative agent and treating with either metronidazole or vancomycin.

Antimotility agents

Antimotility drugs have a theoretical risk of causing complications; clinical experience, however, has shown this to be unlikely. They are thus discouraged in people with bloody diarrhea or diarrhea complicated by a fever. Loperamide, an opioid analogue, is commonly used for the symptomatic treatment of diarrhea.Loperamide is not recommended in children as it may cross the immature blood brain barrier and cause toxicity. Bismuth subsalicylate (BSS), an insoluble complex of trivalent bismuth and salicylate, can be used in mild-moderate cases.

Antispasmotics

Butylscopolamine (Buscopan) is useful in treating crampy abdominal pain.

Alternative medicine

Probiotics

Some probiotics have been shown to be beneficial in preventing and treating various forms of gastroenteritis.[26] They reduce both the duration of illness and the frequency of stools.[34] Fermented milk products (such as yogurt) also reduce the duration of symptoms.

Zinc

The World Health Organization recommends that infants and children receive a dietary supplement of zinc for up to two weeks after onset of gastroenteritis. A 2009 trial however did not find any benefit from supplementation.