Gastroenteritis---or, more simply put, stomach flu---is an infection that can be attributed to many viruses, including rotaviruses, astroviruses and type 40 or 41 adenoviruses. Viral gastroenteritis may result in vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, headache, chills and fever as well as nasal congestion, sore throat and coughing. While most people recover from a stomach virus without long-term issues, in the short-term, discomfort can be considerable. Antibiotics are not effective is treating a stomach virus, but certain measures can be taken to alleviate symptoms.
Liquids
One of the greatest risks associated with a stomach virus is dehydration, particularly when vomiting and diarrhea are among the symptoms. In addition to drinking a lot of clear fluids, it may be necessary for children to take an oral rehydration solution (packaged as salts that get mixed with water or sold as commercially available solutions, such as Pedialyte) to replace lost electrolytes and fluids. Sucking on ice chips or ice pops can also help.
Homeopathics
Oscillococcinum, a homeopathic remedy, when taken at the first sign of a stomach virus may shorten the duration of the illness as well as temporarily relieve symptoms like fever, aches and pains and chills.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Depending on the strain of stomach virus, over-the-counter medications may help relieve symptoms. For example, sinus or nasal congestion can be addressed with a decongestant pill, syrup capsule or tablet. A nasal spray like oxymetazoline or phenylephrin or a saline spray also may help relieve congestion. If a cough occurs, a cough medicine can be used, while acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil) may help to relieve aches and pains---as well as a sore throat---often associated with a stomach virus.
Anti-Viral Medications
When taken at the onset of an outbreak, antiviral medications may be helpful in treating or shortening the duration of a stomach virus. But while flu drugs can help decrease the severity of a stomach virus, not all antiviral medications work for all strains of flu. It's key to take the right antiviral medication for stomach flu for it to have an impact.
