The intestinal flu is caused from one of many viruses. The illness generally passes within 24 to 48 hours after symptoms appear. Food poisoning may mimic many of the same symptoms but can be a more serious condition and pose more health risks. The intestinal flu and food poisoning can be hard to differentiate from one another as the symptoms for both are very similar. Knowing the difference in the symptoms and length of the illness will help to determine the best course of action for care to insure a prompt and healthy recovery.
Step 1
Reflect on what food you have eaten in the past 24 hours. This will be a good indication if it may be food poisoning or the intestinal flu. Foods that could be the causes of a food borne illness include meat products, chicken, fish, leafy vegetables and eggs. If none of these items were eaten, it is more likely that you have a stomach flu.
Step 2
Inquire with others to see if they have been sick. This is extremely beneficial because it can also warn others who may soon face an illness, but haven't yet shown signs or symptoms. After your inquiry, if you dined with other people at a sushi restaurant and they all ended up with intestinal distress, chances are it is caused from food poisoning. If you didn't eat together but have spent time together in the previous seven days and you are suddenly sick, it is possible it could be the intestinal flu.
Step 3
Note symptom severity. While many of the symptoms are the same with both illnesses, with food poisoning they can be more severe. Diarrhea, while apparent in both illnesses, can be more severe with food poisoning. The stools can also be bloody. Severe weakness, body aches and tiredness are typically present with the intestinal flu, although food poisoning can result in body weakness. A visit to the doctor, who may request a stool sample, is the only way to rule out one illness from the other.
Step 4
Watch for complications. This is important because each illness poses health complications. The main complication is dehydration. This may be caused from vomiting, diarrhea and lack of fluid intake. Fluids should be administered in any way possible. This can be by popsicles, electrolyte replenishment drinks and water. Weight loss is another complication. A normal intestinal flu won't likely cause someone to lose much weight, but food poisoning can. If weight loss of over 3 pounds per week is present, get prompt medical attention.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep hand sanitizer on hand at all times. Invest in a purse size or carry along size to send with family members when they are traveling. Prevent getting the intestinal flu by utilizing proper hand washing techniques. Wash your hands before eating to prevent bacteria from entering the body. Wash your hands after touching surfaces in public places. Use hand sanitizer when water and soap is unavailable. Always make sure food is cooked properly. Use a food thermometer when cooking to make sure food reaches 145 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit for its internal temperature. This will destroy food borne bacteria. Ordering raw or rare food increases your chances of getting poisoned. Make sure greens and salads are washed and prepared safely before serving. Purchase fresh vegetables, poultry and meat. Avoid buying expired or discounted food. Avoid cross contamination of infected foods with fresh foods by keeping food prep and food storage areas clean and disinfected.
- If you suspect you have the flu, stay home. Do not go out and spread the virus to others, especially in the work place or at school locations.
Things You'll Need
- Hand sanitizer
- Food thermometer
