Gastrointestinal flu symptoms have nothing to do with the seasonal flu or the virus that causes respiratory illness. Also known as viral gastroenteritis, this so-called stomach flu is caused by an intestinal infection and can be spread through the consumption of infected foods, according to the Mayo Clinic. An infected person can contaminate foods and surfaces, and in turn infect others. Contaminated food, water and undercooked shellfish are common ways gastroenteritis is transmitted. Symptoms of the stomach flu are generally the same regardless of which bacteria or virus is responsible for the infection.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common symptom of stomach flu. The Mayo Clinic describes this symptom as watery and frequent passing of stools. Blood in the stool may indicate a more severe infection and should be reported to a medical professional. Abdominal cramping and pain might accompany the diarrhea.
Vomiting
Individuals with gastrointestinal flu often have nausea and vomiting. These symptoms usually resolve in 1 to 2 days, but can last as long as 10 days, explains the Mayo Clinic. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) points out that blood in the vomit, though rare, can also be a symptom of infection.
Dehydration
Dehydration can result from persistent vomiting and diarrhea. Children, infants and the elderly are especially susceptible to dehydration from the stomach flu. The Mayo Clinic recommends seeking medical attention if a child exhibits signs of dehydration such as infrequent or darkened urine, lethargy, irritability or moderate discomfort, and pain. Infants may cry without tears, have few wet diapers, dry mouth, sunken soft spot on the top of the head or is unusually sleep or unresponsive. Fluid intake is important for any person experiencing the stomach flu. Seek medical attention for dehydration in individuals who are not consuming enough fluid.
Other Symptoms
Other gastrointestinal flu symptoms include headache, muscle aches or a low fever. More serious symptoms should be reported to a doctor, says the Mayo Clinic. These include an inability to keep liquids down for 24 hours, vomiting that lasts longer than 2 days or a high fever.
