Contrary to the description, "stomach viruses" do not affect the stomach at all, but the small intestines. According to MayoClinic.com, viral gastroenteritis is an infection in the intestines that is typically contracted through contaminated food or contact with an infected person. If left untreated, stomach viruses may lead to weight loss caused by dehydration.
Types
Stomach viruses come in four forms. Rotavirus is the leading cause of stomach viruses in children up to 15 months of age and causes diarrhea. Although more common and more severe in children, it can affect adults. Caliciviruses may affect people of all ages and are caused by food-borne bacteria and may take up to three days from time of exposure to show symptoms. Adenovirus affects children 2 years of age and under, and symptoms typically develop within a week of being exposed to the virus. The astrovirus strand may take up to three days to show symptoms and affects the elderly, infants and young children.
Symptoms
Symptoms may vary with the individual. However, the most common symptoms of these strains of stomach virus include diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating and loss of appetite, which may lead to weight loss. Additionally, severe diarrhea and vomiting may lead to dehydration while contributing to weight loss. You may also experience a low-grade fever, muscle aches and cramps.
Dehydration
More than half your body is made up of water, so it is necessary to drink lots of fluids to keep yourself hydrated. Conditions such as stomach viruses that have symptoms of vomiting, sweating and diarrhea may cause your body to lose too much fluid and become dehydrated. If left untreated, dehydration can be fatal, and weight loss from a virus may indicate dehydration.
Treatment
There is no cure for stomach viruses. According to KidsHealth.org, if you contract a stomach virus, the best thing to do is rest, avoid solid foods if you are vomiting and drink lots of fluids. Electrolyte drinks may aid in replenishing the fluids lost due to diarrhea and vomiting.
Warning
MayoClinic.com says infants, young children and the elderly may have suppressed immune systems that may lead to severe dehydration. In this case, hospitalization may be required to replace fluids intravenously. If you are experiencing noticeable weight loss due to dehydration, consult your physician for evaluation.
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