Stomach virus or stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, is an intestinal infection that causes diarrhea, cramps, headache, nausea, vomiting and fever, according to MayoClinic.com.The disease is rarely dangerous but it can cause serious complications infants, the elderly and those with impaired immune systems. There is no effective treatment for viral gastroenteritis because antibiotics won't work against a virus. But there are some things patients can do to minimize symptoms.
Prevent Dehydration
Because a stomach virus can cause both vomiting and diarrhea, the body can lose a dangerous amount of fluid, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. To prevent dehydration, patients should consume plenty of fluids throughout the day. If that triggers more vomiting, patients can take small, frequent sips or suck on ice chips. Clear fluids such as broth can also help.
For children, water should be avoided because it isn't absorbed well and may not adequately replace lost electrolytes, according to MayoClinic.com. Instead, an oral rehydration solution for children, such as Pedialyte, can be used. The symptoms of dehydration are extreme thirst, dry mouth, little or no urine, absence of tears, weakness, dizziness and headache. If those symptoms occur, patients should call a doctor.
What To Avoid
Taking a break from all food and drink for a few hours can help settle the stomach and ease symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. Patients should avoid dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, fatty or spicy foods, and sugary foods such as ice cream or soda that can worsen diarrhea. Painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen should be avoided as they can worsen stomach upset. Parents should not give aspirin to a sick child, as that can lead to a potentially fatal condition called Reye's syndrome. Parents should also steer clear of over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications because that can make it hard for a sick child to clear the virus from the body.
Gradually Introduce Solids
Once the stomach has settled a little, patients can start eating solid foods in small amounts, according to MayoClinic.com. Foods such as apples, broth, banana, rice, potatoes, toast or soda crackers and gelatin work well. If the nausea returns, patients should stop eating again. Extra rest can help the body heal. A doctor should be called if nausea and vomiting persist for more than two days; diarrhea turns bloody; there is a fever of over 101 degrees F; if confusion develops; abdominal pain is extreme; or if there is dizziness or fainting.
