What are the key symptoms of stomach flu. How long does stomach flu typically last. What are the main differences between stomach flu and food poisoning. How can you distinguish stomach flu from COVID-19 symptoms. What are the most effective home treatments for stomach flu.

Understanding Stomach Flu: Symptoms and Causes

The stomach flu, medically known as gastroenteritis, is a common ailment that can cause significant discomfort. It’s crucial to understand its symptoms and causes to effectively manage the condition.

Common Symptoms of Stomach Flu

Stomach flu typically presents with a range of uncomfortable symptoms. These include:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Low-grade fever
• Chills
• Muscle aches

These symptoms can appear as soon as 12 hours after exposure to the virus and may persist for varying durations.

Duration of Stomach Flu

How long does stomach flu typically last? The duration can vary significantly from person to person. Symptoms may persist anywhere from one to 14 days, with most cases resolving within a few days to a week.

Causes of Stomach Flu

Stomach flu is primarily caused by various viruses, with norovirus being responsible for over 50% of cases. Other culprits include:

• Rotavirus
• Bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli

It’s important to note that the influenza vaccine does not protect against stomach flu, as they are caused by different pathogens.

Stomach Flu vs. Food Poisoning: How to Tell the Difference

Given the similarity in symptoms, it can be challenging to distinguish between stomach flu and food poisoning. However, there are some key differences that can help you identify the cause of your discomfort.

Onset of Symptoms

The timing of symptom onset is a crucial factor in differentiating between stomach flu and food poisoning. Food poisoning symptoms typically appear within hours of consuming contaminated food, while stomach flu symptoms may take longer to develop.

Affected Individuals

Another distinguishing factor is the number of people affected. If you’re the only one experiencing symptoms after a shared meal, it’s more likely to be stomach flu. However, if multiple people who consumed the same food are ill, food poisoning is the probable culprit.

Stomach Flu and COVID-19: Navigating the Symptom Overlap

The COVID-19 pandemic has added another layer of complexity to diagnosing stomach-related illnesses. While primarily a respiratory disease, COVID-19 can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms in some cases.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms in COVID-19

Approximately 20% of COVID-19 patients experience gastrointestinal symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

These symptoms typically appear in the early stages of the infection.

Progression of Symptoms

How can you distinguish between stomach flu and COVID-19? The key lies in monitoring the progression of symptoms. In COVID-19 cases, gastrointestinal symptoms are often followed by more typical respiratory symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Headache
• Cough
• Fatigue

If you notice this progression, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider about getting tested for COVID-19.

Effective Home Remedies for Stomach Flu

While there’s no specific medical treatment for viral gastroenteritis, several self-care measures can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.

Hydration: The Key to Recovery

Maintaining proper hydration is crucial when battling stomach flu. What are the best fluids for hydration during stomach flu?

• Water
• Sports drinks (for older children and adults)
• Oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte (for babies and young children)

For children experiencing vomiting, offer small amounts of fluid frequently. Breastfeeding mothers can continue to nurse their babies.

Dietary Considerations

What should you eat when recovering from stomach flu? When your appetite returns, focus on easily digestible foods such as:

• Boiled starches (potatoes, noodles, rice, wheat, oats)
• Plain cereals with salt
• Crackers
• Bananas
• Soup
• Boiled vegetables

Avoid dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and fatty or highly-seasoned foods until you’ve fully recovered.

Rest and Recovery

Adequate rest is essential for recovery from stomach flu. The illness and potential dehydration can cause fatigue, so listen to your body and allow yourself time to recuperate.

Over-the-Counter Medications: When and How to Use Them

In some cases, over-the-counter medications can provide relief from stomach flu symptoms. However, it’s important to use these medications judiciously and under appropriate circumstances.

Antidiarrheal Medications

Adults under 65 years old experiencing diarrhea without fever or blood in their stools can consider using antidiarrheal medications such as:

• Loperamide (Imodium)
• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

These medications should be used for no more than one to two days, and only if there are no allergies to these substances.

Precautions for Certain Groups

Children and adults over 65 should consult their healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medications for stomach flu symptoms. This precaution helps avoid potential complications or adverse reactions.

Preventing the Spread of Stomach Flu

Stomach flu is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, especially in close-contact environments. Understanding how it spreads and implementing preventive measures is crucial in limiting its transmission.

Transmission Routes

How does stomach flu spread? The primary transmission route is fecal-oral, meaning that viruses from infected feces or vomit find their way into the mouth through:

• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face
• Consuming contaminated food or water

Noroviruses, a common cause of stomach flu, can survive on household surfaces for days, contributing to their easy spread.

Effective Prevention Strategies

What are the most effective ways to prevent the spread of stomach flu?

1. Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before handling food.
2. Disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home, especially if someone is ill.
3. Isolate infected individuals: Those with stomach flu should avoid preparing food for others and limit close contact until symptoms resolve.
4. Handle and prepare food safely: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and cook foods to appropriate temperatures.
5. Stay home when sick: If you’re experiencing stomach flu symptoms, stay home to avoid spreading the illness to others.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Stomach Flu

While most cases of stomach flu resolve on their own with home care, certain situations warrant medical attention. Recognizing these signs is crucial for preventing complications.

Warning Signs in Adults

Adults should seek medical care if they experience:

• Inability to keep liquids down for 24 hours
• Vomiting blood
• Bloody stools
• Fever above 104째F (40째C)
• Signs of severe dehydration (extreme thirst, dark urine, dizziness)

Warning Signs in Children

For children, medical attention is necessary if they show:

• Fever of 102째F (39째C) or higher
• Severe abdominal pain
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears when crying, decreased urination)
• Lethargy or extreme irritability

In infants, parents should be particularly vigilant about signs of dehydration and seek immediate medical care if concerned.

Long-Term Health Impacts of Recurrent Stomach Flu

While most people recover fully from stomach flu without long-term effects, frequent bouts of gastroenteritis can potentially lead to more serious health issues.

Potential Complications

What are the potential long-term health impacts of recurrent stomach flu?

• Chronic digestive issues: Frequent gastroenteritis can disrupt the gut microbiome, potentially leading to longer-term digestive problems.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Some studies suggest a link between recurrent gastroenteritis and the development of IBS.
• Malnutrition: Repeated episodes of vomiting and diarrhea can lead to nutrient deficiencies if not properly managed.
• Weakened immune system: Frequent infections may temporarily suppress immune function, making individuals more susceptible to other illnesses.

Preventive Measures

To minimize the risk of long-term health impacts from recurrent stomach flu:

1. Maintain good hygiene practices to prevent frequent infections
2. Ensure proper nutrition and hydration during and after illness
3. Consider probiotic supplementation to support gut health
4. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience frequent bouts of gastroenteritis

By understanding the potential long-term impacts and taking preventive measures, individuals can protect their digestive health and overall well-being.

Have the Stomach Flu? 4 Ways to Treat Symptoms at Home

There’s almost nothing worse than being bent over a toilet throwing up. And, sadly, it can be hard to know what caused you to be there in the first place. Kelli Miller, ANP, UnityPoint Health, lists the symptoms of the stomach flu and how long it lasts, plus ways to feel better, so you can get out of the bathroom and get back to normal.

Stomach Flu Symptoms

Miller says it’s easy to get confused about the difference between influenza, or “the flu,” and gastroenteritis, better known as “the stomach flu.” The stomach flu is caused by a number of viruses, mainly norovirus, which accounts for more than 50 percent of all cases, and others, like rotavirus. Bacteria, such salmonella and E. coli, can also be to blame. Getting the flu shot does not prevent you from getting the stomach flu, but it does prevent you from getting influenza.

“Stomach flu symptoms include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea,” Miller says. “A low-grade fever, chills and muscle aches aren’t uncommon to experience as well. Symptoms can start as little as 12 hours after exposure.”

These symptoms can last anywhere from one to 14 days, and unfortunately, the stomach flu is extremely contagious.

“The stomach flu is spread by the fecal-oral route, which means the viruses from infected feces or vomit find their way into our mouths from either touching a contaminated surface and then touching your face or eating/drinking contaminated foods and/or water. Compared to other viruses, noroviruses can live for days on household surfaces, which is why they spread easily,” Miller says.

Stomach Flu vs. Food Poisoning

Miller says the clinical symptoms of the stomach flu and food poisoning overlap quite a bit, as you can have vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort and fever with either one. She says the easiest way to determine the cause of your discomfort is to look back at your recent history.

“If your symptoms are caused by food poisoning, they tend to occur within hours after eating something. If you can recall eating something questionable, or if others who ate the same thing as you and have similar symptoms, you probably have food poisoning. If you are the only one who got sick, you more than likely picked up a viral illness,” Miller says. 

Stomach Flu vs. COVID-19

To make matters even more confusing, some people with COVID-19 (about 20% according to studies) experience stomach issues including nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Most people with those symptoms usually report developing them in the first couple of days and then go on to experience other respiratory or cold-like symptoms like fever, headache, cough and fatigue.

If you experience nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea, keep an eye out for other symptoms that may follow. If you notice a progression in the illness, talk with your doctor about getting tested for COVID-19. Remember, if you’re feeling sick, stay home and continue to wash your hands frequently.

How to Treat the Stomach Flu at Home

Miller says there’s often no specific medical treatment for viral gastroenteritis. Antibiotics aren’t effective against viruses and overusing them can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. She recommends treating the stomach flu with the following self-care steps:

• Keep drinking the right fluids. You’ll need to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration. In addition to water, older children and adults can drink sports drinks, like Gatorade, Power Aid, while babies and young children can have an oral rehydration solution, such as Pedialyte. If your child is vomiting, you can try to give your child a few teaspoons of fluid every few minutes. Babies who breastfeed can continue to breastfeed. But, you should avoid drinks with increased sugar content, such as juices or sodas, which can make diarrhea worse.
• Eat the right foods. If you don’t have an appetite, you should resort to drinking only liquids for a short period of time. Boiled starches (potatoes, noodles, rice, wheat and oats) and plain cereals with salt are recommended, if you have watery diarrhea. You may also try crackers, bananas, soup and boiled vegetables.
• Avoid heavy foods. On the other hand, you should avoid certain foods until you are feeling better. These include dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and fatty or highly-seasoned foods.
• Get plenty of rest. The illness or dehydration can make you feel tired.

“Adults under 65 years old with a new bout of diarrhea, with no fever or blood in bowel movements, can take medicine to stop diarrhea, such as loparmide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicyclate (Pepto Bismal) for one to two days, if they’re not allergic to these medications. Children and adults over the age of 65 should check with their health care provider before taking any over-the-counter medicines,” Miller says.

As contagious as it is, keeping your family from catching the stomach flu can be tricky. Miller offers these tips to protect against the viral infections that cause gastroenteritis:

• Immunize little ones. Infants can be immunized with the rotavirus vaccine. This is offered at 2, 4 and 6 months old during well-child visits.
• Simply wash your hands. Wash your hands often to stop the spread of germs. Hand sanitizer works after being in public as well.
• Give your home the once-over. Use household cleaning products to disinfect surfaces and objects, like countertops, doorknobs, handles, sinks, toilets, computer keyboards and phones.
• Separate your laundry loads. Wash laundry of those recovering from the stomach flu in different loads than the rest of your family.
• Keep your distance. Try to keep your children, especially newborns, away from anyone who is sick. If someone in your family is sick, stay home and do not go to work, school or day care. You should be symptom-free for 48 hours before returning.

When the Stomach Flu Requires a Doctor

While most stomach illnesses pass on their own, there are cases when medical attention is necessary. Miller recommends watching for signs of severe dehydration:

• Increased thirst
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Confusion
• Increased heart rate over 100 beats per minute
• Increased breathing rate
• Dizziness, including when standing from a sitting or laying position
• Passing out
• Fatigue
• Dark yellow or amber colored urine
• No urination within the past six to eight hours (during the day)

In addition to severe dehydration, Miller also says the following are causes for concern, and if you experience these, contact your provider:

• Bloody stool/rectal bleeding or blood in vomit
• Vomiting for more than 24 hours
• Fever greater than 104 degrees
• Weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain
• Prolonged symptoms lasting more than a week
• Are currently pregnant

Lastly, call your baby’s doctor right away if your baby:

• Has vomiting lasting several hours
• Hasn’t had a wet diaper in six hours
• Has bloody stools or severe diarrhea
• Has a sunken soft spot (fontanel) on the top of his or her head
• Has a dry mouth or cries without tears
• Is unusually sleepy, drowsy or unresponsive

If any of these symptoms are present, evaluation by a health care professional is needed right away, and IV hydration may need to be administered or possible admission to the hospital.

Viral Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Symptoms and Treatment

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Viral gastroenteritis can cause nausea and vomiting. You can get the virus that causes it from other people or through contaminated foods, drinks, or surfaces. Washing your hands often may help prevent it.

Viral gastroenteritis is an inflammation and irritation of your intestines caused by one of a number of viruses, most commonly norovirus or rotavirus. This illness is also known as the stomach flu.

This highly contagious illness spreads through close contact with people who have the virus or through contaminated food or water.

It can easily spread in close quarters, such as:

• childcare facilities
• schools
• nursing homes
• cruise ships

This article will help you understand more about viral gastroenteritis including symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention.

Symptoms of gastroenteritis usually begin shortly after infection. For example, symptoms caused by norovirus typically develop within 12 to 48 hours. Symptoms from adenoviruses may be delayed 3 to 10 days after contact.

Depending on which type of virus you’ve contracted, symptoms can last anywhere from 1 to 14 days. Symptoms often start suddenly over the course of 1 or 2 hours.

Symptoms can include:

• loose, watery diarrhea more than 3 times per day
• fever or chills
• nausea and vomiting
• headache, muscle aches, or joint aches
• sweating or clammy skin
• abdominal cramps and pain
• loss of appetite

Diarrhea caused by viral gastroenteritis isn’t usually bloody. Blood in your stool could be a sign of a more severe infection.

You should seek emergency medical treatment if:

• diarrhea has lasted for 2 days or more without getting less frequent
• your infant develops diarrhea
• blood is present in your diarrhea
• you show or see signs of dehydration, such as dry lips or dizziness

In addition to the above symptoms, you should seek emergency attention for your child if they have the appearance of sunken eyes or if they aren’t making tears when they cry.

Viral gastroenteritis is caused by a number of different viruses. It’s easy for these viruses to spread in group situations. Some of the ways the virus is transmitted include:

• eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water
• being in close contact with someone who has the virus
• sharing utensils or other items with someone who has the virus
• touching contaminated surfaces
• not washing hands properly, especially food handlers

Viral gastroenteritis affects people of all ages all over the world. But some factors can increase the risk of contracting viral gastroenteritis. People who are at a higher risk include:

• children under the age of 5
• older adults, especially those who live in nursing homes or assisted living facilities
• people with a compromised or weakened immune system
• those who are often in group settings, such as schools, dormitories, day care, religious gatherings, and other indoor group settings

Other factors that may increase the risk of becoming ill with viral gastroenteritis include:

• being malnourished, especially low levels of vitamin A or zinc
• recent travel to developing countries
• antibiotic or antacid use
• anal intercourse

Several different types of viruses can cause viral gastroenteritis. The most common include:

• norovirus
• rotavirus
• adenovirus
• astrovirus

Let’s look at each of these viruses in more detail.

Norovirus

Norovirus is highly contagious and can affect anyone at any age. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, or by people who have the virus. Norovirus is common in crowded spaces.

Norovirus is the leading cause of gastroenteritis in the United States and worldwide. Most outbreaks in the United States occur between November and April.

Symptoms include:

• nausea
• diarrhea
• fever
• body aches

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people who become ill with norovirus start to feel better within 1 to 3 days of symptom onset.

Rotavirus

Rotavirus commonly affects infants and young children. Those who contract it can then pass the virus to other children and adults. It’s usually contracted and transmitted via the mouth.

Symptoms typically appear within 2 days of infection and include:

• vomiting
• loss of appetite
• watery diarrhea that lasts anywhere from 3 to 8 days

A rotavirus vaccine was approved for infants in 2006. Early vaccination is recommended to prevent severe rotavirus illnesses in infants and small children.

Adenovirus

The adenovirus affects people of all ages. It can cause several types of illness, including gastroenteritis. The adenovirus can also cause common cold-like symptoms, bronchitis, pneumonia, and pink eye (conjunctivitis).

Children in daycare, especially those under 2 years of age, are more likely to get adenovirus.

Adenovirus is passed through the air via sneezing and coughing, by touching contaminated objects, or by touching the hands of someone with the virus.

Symptoms associated with adenovirus include:

• sore throat
• pink eye
• fever
• coughing
• runny nose

Most children will feel better within a few days of experiencing adenovirus symptoms. However, symptoms such as pink eye may last longer than a few days.

Astrovirus

Astrovirus is another virus that commonly causes gastroenteritis in children. Symptoms associated with astrovirus include:

• diarrhea
• headache
• mild dehydration
• stomach pain

The virus most often affects people in late winter and early spring. It’s transmitted through contact with a person who has the virus or via an infected surface or food.

Symptoms usually appear within 2 to 3 days after initial exposure, and the virus will usually go away within 1 to 4 days.

The main complication of viral gastroenteritis is dehydration, which can be quite severe in babies and young children. Viral gastroenteritis accounts for over 200,000 childhood deaths worldwide per year.

Other complications of viral gastroenteritis include:

• nutritional imbalances
• body weakness or fatigue
• muscle weakness

Dehydration can be life threatening. Call your doctor if you or your child have these symptoms:

• diarrhea lasting more than a few days
• blood in the stool
• confusion or lethargy
• dizziness or feeling like you’re going to faint
• nausea
• dry mouth
• an inability to produce tears
• no urine for more than 8 hours or urine that is dark yellow or brown
• sunken eyes
• sunken fontanel on an infant’s head

Dehydration that accompanies viral gastroenteritis can lead to several complications of its own. These include:

• brain swelling
• coma
• hypovolemic shock, a condition that occurs when your body doesn’t have enough fluid or blood
• kidney failure
• seizures

To prevent complications, get immediate medical attention if you or your child have symptoms of dehydration.

Most of the time, your medical history and physical exam are the basis for diagnosis, especially if there’s evidence that the virus is spreading through your community.

Your doctor may also order a stool sample to test for the type of virus, or to find out if your illness is caused by a parasitic or bacterial infection.

The main focus of treatment is to prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids. In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous fluids may be necessary.

Over-the-counter oral rehydration solutions (OHS), such as Pedialyte, can be helpful in mild cases. These solutions are easy on your child’s stomach, and contain a balanced mixture of water and salts to replenish essential fluids and electrolytes.

These solutions are available at local pharmacies and don’t require a prescription. However, you should follow the instructions carefully.

Antibiotics have no effect on viruses. Check with your physician before taking any over-the-counter medications.

Shop online for oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte and oral electrolyte products.

Treating diarrhea and vomiting

Diarrhea can be treated in adults with over-the-counter medications such as loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol).

Your doctor may also prescribe probiotics to replace the healthy bacteria that’s lost during diarrhea or they may prescribe medications to treat severe vomiting.

What to eat and what to avoid

As you start to feel better and reintroduce foods into your diet, it’s best to opt for bland foods, such as:

• rice
• potatoes
• toast
• bananas
• applesauce

These foods are easier to digest and less likely to cause further stomach upset. Until you’re feeling better, you may want to avoid some types of foods, such as:

• fatty or fried foods
• caffeine
• alcohol
• sugary foods
• dairy products

Self-care steps

If you have viral gastroenteritis, consider these self-care measures to help ease your symptoms and prevent dehydration:

• Drink extra fluids with and between meals. If you have difficulty, try drinking very small amounts of water or sucking on ice chips.
• Avoid fruit juices. These don’t replace the minerals that you’ve lost and can actually increase diarrhea.
• Electrolytes. Children and adults can consume sports drinks to replenish electrolytes. Younger children and infants should use products formulated for children, such as OHS.
• Limit portion sizes. Try to eat food in smaller amounts to help your stomach recover.
• Get lots of rest. Prioritize getting at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Don’t exert yourself until you feel that you have your usual level of energy and strength.
• Medications. Check with your doctor before taking medications or giving them to children. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers with a viral illness. This can cause Reye’s syndrome, a potentially life threatening condition.

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In addition to rehydrating and resting, there are some natural and home remedies that may help you relieve the symptoms of viral gastroenteritis.

Heating pad or heat pack

If you have abdominal pain, try applying a low-temperature heating pad or a warm heat pack to your stomach. Cover the heating pad with a cloth and don’t leave it on for more than 15 minutes at a time.

The heat can help relax the muscles in your digestive tract and keep them from spasming.

Shop online for heating pads and heat packs.

Brown rice water

Some parents serve rice water to their children. This is the water that remains after boiling brown rice. It’s high in electrolytes and can help with rehydration.

To make rice water:

1. Boil 1 cup of rice and 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes until the water becomes cloudy.
2. Strain the rice and keep the water.
3. Cool the rice water before serving.

Ginger

Products containing ginger, such as ginger ale or ginger tea, may help soothe an upset stomach.

A 2019 review of studies found that a divided daily dose of 1,500 milligrams of ginger taken in two parts throughout the day may help reduce nausea. More research needs to be done on ginger’s ability to treat other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Shop online for ginger ale and ginger tea.

Mint

Mint may also have anti-nausea properties similar to those of ginger. Sipping a soothing mint tea may help you feel better.

Studies have found that peppermint oil may help relax the muscles in your gut. It also has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Shop online for mint tea.

Yogurt or kefir

Although dairy products should be avoided when you have your most acute symptoms, eating unflavored yogurt with live active cultures or drinking kefir may help restore your body’s natural bacterial balance after illness.

Shop online for plain yogurt and kefir.

Viral gastroenteritis can spread easily. However, there are some steps you can take to lower your risk of contracting the virus or passing it to others.

Prevention tips

• Wash your hands often, especially after using the bathroom and before food preparation. If necessary, use hand sanitizer until you can access soap and water.
• Don’t share kitchen utensils, plates, or towels if someone in your household is sick.
• Don’t eat raw or undercooked foods.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
• Take special precautions to avoid contaminated water and food when traveling. Avoid ice cubes and use bottled water whenever possible.
• Ask your doctor if you should have your infant vaccinated against rotavirus. There are two vaccines, and they’re generally started around 2 months old.

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Viral gastroenteritis is an inflammation and irritation of your intestines caused by one of several types of viruses.

Vomiting and diarrhea are among the most common symptoms. You can get viral gastroenteritis from other people or through contaminated foods, drinks, or surfaces.

Generally, viral gastroenteritis symptoms come on suddenly and pass quickly. If diarrhea lasts longer than 48 hours, be sure to follow up with your doctor.

It’s also a good idea to get medical attention if your infant or young child develops diarrhea because it can lead to serious complications due to dehydration.

Enteroviral infection

09/18/2017

Enterovirus infection is a multiple group of acute infectious diseases that can affect children and adults when infected with viruses of the Enterovirus genus. The insidiousness of the causative agents of enterovirus infection is that they can cause various forms of clinical manifestations, from mild malaise to serious damage to the central nervous system. With the development of an enterovirus infection, the symptoms are characterized by a feverish state and a wide variety of other signs caused by damage to the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, central nervous system and other organs.

How the infection spreads:

The main route of transmission of enterovirus infection is fecal-oral .
Household contact , through household items, contaminated hands, if personal hygiene is not observed.
Airborne if the pathogen multiplies in the respiratory tract, when coughing, sneezing.
Waterway – infection can occur when vegetables and fruits are watered with contaminated sewage, as well as when swimming in open contaminated water bodies, according to some reports, even water in coolers is a source of enterovirus infection.
If a pregnant woman is infected with an enterovirus infection, a vertical route of the pathogen’s transmission to the child is also possible.

Enterovirus infection is characterized by summer-autumn seasonality, a person has a very high natural susceptibility, and after the illness, type-specific immunity is maintained for several years.
The incubation period of any enteroviral infections is no more than 2-7 days.

All diseases that can be caused by enteroviruses according to the severity of the inflammatory process can be conditionally divided into 2 groups:0017 Serious diseases
These include acute paralysis, hepatitis, serous meningitis in children and adults, pericarditis, myocarditis, neonatal septic-like diseases, any chronic infections in HIV-infected people (HIV infection: symptoms, stages).
Less severe diseases
Conjunctivitis, three-day fever without rash or with rash, herpangina, vesicular pharyngitis, pleurodynia, uveitis, gastroenteritis. Enterovirus D68 may present with severe cough and bronchopulmonary obstruction.

Symptoms:

Signs of SARS . Children develop perspiration, sore throat, sometimes runny nose, cough, fever. The temperature is high at the first stages, then decreases and after 2-3 days it jumps sharply again. This phenomenon is called “enterovirus fever”. It lasts, as a rule, 3 days, the child will feel unwell. During this period, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea sometimes appear, which can stop abruptly.

Rash . This manifestation of the disease is called “exanthema”. A rash appears on the second day after the temperature rises. As a rule, it is localized on the neck, legs, arms, face, back, chest. Outwardly, it looks like small red dots on the skin, identical to the manifestation of measles. Sometimes the rash is localized in the mouth, throat, looks like bubbles filled with liquid, which then turn into sores.

Muscle pain . Enterovirus infection in some cases affects muscle tissue. It is localized more often in the chest, abdomen, much less often in the back, arms, legs. Deterioration of the condition is manifested by movement, the pain has a paroxysmal character. The duration can be several minutes and up to half an hour. If you do not start timely therapy, muscle pain will become chronic.

Diarrhea, vomiting. Often manifested in children under 2 years of age when the body is affected by an enterovirus infection. Sometimes the symptom is accompanied by bloating, pain. Diarrhea can last for several days. The main task of parents during this period is to restore fluid deficiency in time.

Additional symptoms of enterovirus infection:
drowsiness, lethargy;
abdominal pain;
loss of appetite;
swelling of the extremities;
general malaise;
dehydration;
conjunctivitis, redness of the eyes, lacrimation;
enlargement of the lymph nodes.

In healthy adults with strong immunity, enterovirus infection cannot develop to severe pathological processes, and most often it is completely asymptomatic, which cannot be said about small children, especially newborns and adults weakened by other diseases, such as HIV infection, cancer, tuberculosis.

To prevent the disease of enterovirus infection, it is necessary to observe preventive measures:

Use guaranteed safe water and drinks (boiled water and drinks in factory packaging).
Eat foods that have been heat treated.
Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables with safe water and then rinse with boiling water.
When swimming in ponds and pools, do not allow water to enter the oral cavity.
Follow the basic rules of personal hygiene.
You should avoid visiting mass events, places with a large number of people (public transport, cinemas, etc.).
Wet cleaning of residential premises is recommended at least 2 times a day, ventilation of premises.

Under no circumstances should a child visit an organized children’s group (school, preschool institutions) with any manifestations of the disease. At the first signs of illness, you should immediately seek medical help, do not self-medicate!

Fever of unknown origin: causes, symptoms, treatment

Contents

• 1 Fever of unknown origin: causes, symptoms and treatment website LNP
• 1.2 What is a fever of unknown origin?
• 1.3 Causes of fever of unknown origin
• 1.4 What are the symptoms of fever of unknown origin?
• 1.5 How is fever of unknown origin diagnosed?
• 1.6 Treatment of fever of unknown origin
• 1.7 Prevention of fever of unknown origin: what you need to know?
  • 1.7.1 Maintain hygiene
  • 1.7.2 Travel restrictions
  • 1.7.3 Boost immunity
  • 1.7.4 Emergency measures
• 1.8 Can with maximum accuracy to determine the origin of the fever?
• 1. 9 Countries affected by fever of unknown origin
• 1.10 How is fever of unknown origin transmitted?
• 1.11 Consequences of a fever of unknown origin
• 1.12 How to minimize the risk of contracting a fever of unknown origin?
• 1.13 Related videos:
• 1.14 Q&A:
  • • 1.14.0.1 What are the signs that I have a fever of unknown origin?
    • 1.14.0.2 What are the causes of fever of unknown origin?
    • 1.14.0.3 How is fever of unknown origin diagnosed?
    • 1.14.0.4 What is the treatment for fever of unknown origin?
    • 1.14.0.5 How can you protect yourself from fever of unknown origin?
    • 1.14.0.6 Can a fever of unknown origin become an epidemic?

Learn about the causes and symptoms of fever of unknown origin (FUN), treatments, and prevention. What to do if you suspect LDL – expert advice and helpful tips.

Fever is an increase in body temperature above normal. It can be caused by many factors: infections, allergic reactions, psychological stress and other reasons. In this article, we will look at one of the most mysterious forms of fever – of unknown origin.

This form of fever is very disturbing. In some cases, it is associated with epidemics that can lead to potentially dangerous consequences. In addition, this form of fever is often difficult to diagnose, making it difficult to treat.

In this article, we will look at several causes of fever of unknown origin, report on its symptoms, which include high body temperature, headache, muscle pain, severe weakness. And also tell about the methods of diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Fever of unknown origin: causes, symptoms, treatment – article on the LNP website

Fever of unknown origin is a condition in which the patient experiences an increase in body temperature, the cause of which is unknown.

Symptoms of this condition may vary from patient to patient, but there are common features including:

• High body temperature;
• Headache;
• Feeling weak and tired;
• Pain in muscles and joints;

To find the cause of a fever, doctors do various tests and blood tests. In the treatment, you can use antibiotics, antiviral drugs and other medicines that are aimed at combating the cause of the condition.

Some causes of fever of unknown origin: Viruses Bacteria Parasites

It is important to see a doctor at the first sign of a fever of unknown origin, since this condition can lead to complications.

What is a fever of unknown origin?

Fever of unknown origin, or FDL, is an infectious disease that causes high fever and other symptoms, but the cause is unknown. It belongs to the category of diseases that are of concern due to their unknown origin and potential to spread around the world.

Because LDL causes symptoms similar to other illnesses such as influenza or pneumonia, it is difficult to diagnose without a thorough examination. This makes it even more potentially dangerous, as people may have a medical breakdown in determining which infection they have.

Causes of fever of unknown origin

Fever of unknown origin can occur for a number of reasons.

1. Infectious diseases: Fever may be due to an infectious disease such as influenza, dengue, Ebola or AIDS.
2. Parasitic diseases: Some parasitic diseases, such as malaria, can also cause fever.
3. Autoimmune diseases: Fever can be caused by autoimmune diseases such as Behçet’s syndrome or systemic lupus erythematosus.
4. Certain medications: Fever may be a side effect of certain medications, such as antibiotics or antifungals.

Given that a fever of unknown origin can have many causes, careful diagnosis and treatment by specialists in various fields of medicine is necessary.

What are the symptoms of a fever of unknown origin?

Fever of unknown origin may present with a variety of symptoms that may be difficult to diagnose and treat.

• High body temperature: One of the main symptoms is an elevated body temperature, which is difficult to reduce by conventional methods.
• Weakness and fatigue: There is often severe weakness, fatigue and feeling unwell, which can last for a long time.
• Pain in muscles and joints: Pain in muscles and joints is common, which may be accompanied by swelling and redness.
• Diarrhea and vomiting: Symptoms of LDL may include diarrhea and vomiting, which may be associated with digestive disorders.
• Severe headache: There may be severe headache that causes discomfort and makes normal activities difficult.
• Sleep and Appetite Disorder: Fever of unknown origin can also affect a person’s sleep and appetite, sleep disturbances and loss of appetite.

It is necessary to know that the symptoms of LDL can be different and depend on the nature and condition of the disease, so it is important to contact specialists in time for diagnosis and treatment.

How is fever of unknown origin diagnosed?

Diagnosis of fever of unknown origin is a set of measures aimed at finding the causes of the disease. In order to determine the cause of the disease, a detailed clinical and epidemiological history of the patient is necessary.

Bacteriological culture, immunoserological and molecular genetic studies can also be carried out. Infectious disease specialists, virologists, bacteriologists, immunologists, geneticists and other specialists experienced in the treatment of infectious diseases may be involved in determining the cause of the disease.

• Important! Diagnosis and treatment of fever of unknown origin requires great care and experience of the physician. The patient should definitely consult a specialist immediately after the first symptoms of the disease appear.

Treatment of fever of unknown origin

Treatment of fever of unknown origin depends on the symptoms and condition of the victim. One of the main methods is symptomatic treatment aimed at reducing body temperature and combating other manifestations of the disease.

Fever is treated with fluids and medicines such as paracetamol. It is important to monitor temperature indicators and consult a doctor in a timely manner.

In case of severe symptoms such as headache, vomiting, cardiovascular disorders, the physician may prescribe appropriate therapy.

An important stage of treatment is maintaining the water-salt balance and normal functioning of the organs.

In the case of a confirmed diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe a more specific treatment aimed at eliminating the cause of the disease.

• Symptomatic treatment aimed at reducing body temperature and combating other manifestations of the disease;
• Maintenance of water-salt balance and normal functioning of organs;
• More specific treatment to eliminate the cause of the disease.

Prevention of fever of unknown origin: what you need to know?

Maintain hygiene

Hygiene is the main way to protect against disease. Washing hands before eating, after going outside, going to the toilet is the basis. You should also keep your clothes and shoes clean. In case of contact with a possible carrier of the disease, measures must be taken to disinfect the body and clothing.

Travel restrictions

If you are planning a trip, you need to know which regions have become the epicenter of various epidemics. Before traveling, you should check the official recommendations for your particular destination and, if necessary, get vaccinated. You should also avoid being around large crowds of people.

Strengthen your immunity

It is very important to strengthen your immunity. This can be done through a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, physical activity and this treatment. It is also worth following the recommendations of doctors and undergoing regular medical examinations.

Emergency measures

In the event of symptoms of a fever of unknown origin, seek immediate medical attention. You should not try to treat yourself, thereby postponing a visit to the doctor. Before going to the doctor, you should avoid contact with other people, especially with young children and the elderly.

Important to remember

Can the origin of fever be determined with maximum accuracy?

Determining the origin of a fever is a difficult task, but modern medical methods provide more accurate and reliable results.

Some types of infections may have similar symptoms, making them difficult to diagnose. Therefore, the accuracy of determining the origin of fever may depend on the experience and qualifications of the doctor conducting the study.

In addition, the correct and timely visit to the doctor at the first signs of the disease is of great importance, as this increases the chances of a full and quick diagnosis and treatment.

Countries affected by fever of unknown origin

China

The first cases of unknown fever were reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019. The disease soon spread throughout the country and was also a source of concern for international health organizations.

Italy

At the beginning of 2020, Italy was one of the countries that faced the emergence of an unknown fever. The disease known as COVID-19, became massive and led to the closure of borders and the introduction of quarantine.

Iran

Iran has also become one of the countries where many cases of unknown fever have been reported. Soon the disease became a pandemic and caused a global crisis.

• China, Italy and Iran are the top countries affected by the unknown fever in early 2020.

How is fever of unknown origin transmitted?

Fever of unknown origin is spread from person to person through droplets of air, close contact with an infected person, or contact with their blood, urine, or other bodily fluids.

It is also possible to transmit infection through the bites of infected insects, such as mosquitoes, which may carry the virus.

To prevent transmission, hygiene measures such as regular handwashing, wearing masks in public places, and avoiding contact with people who are sick should be followed.

If you suspect you have a fever of unknown origin, it is important to seek medical attention and follow all your doctor’s recommendations to avoid infecting others.

Consequences of a fever of unknown origin

Unfortunately, a fever of unknown origin can leave serious consequences even after it has been treated.

• Weakening of the immune system. During the fight against the disease, the body spends a lot of energy, and after it ends, the immune system may remain weakened for a while, which can lead to secondary infections.
• Organ dysfunction. In some cases, a fever of unknown origin can cause malfunction of organs such as the kidneys, liver, heart, which will require long-term treatment and rehabilitation.
• Post-traumatic stress syndrome. People who have had a severe form of fever may develop post-traumatic stress syndrome, which manifests itself in the form of increased anxiety, nervousness, insomnia and other psychological problems.

It is important to note that the consequences of a fever of unknown origin can be very diverse and individual in each case. Therefore, if you suspect this disease, you should immediately consult a doctor and follow his recommendations in order to minimize potential health consequences.

How to minimize the risk of contracting a fever of unknown origin?

1. Practice good personal hygiene. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub. Do not touch your face with your hands unnecessarily. Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or use disposable tissues when coughing or sneezing.

2. Avoid contact with other people. Avoid going to crowded places, close contact with sick people or people who may be infected without symptoms. If communication is necessary, wear a mask.

3. Take care of your health. Monitor temperature regularly and pay attention to symptoms. If signs of illness appear, consult a doctor immediately.

4. Eat only carefully prepared food. Do not eat raw or undercooked foods. Cook meat and fish avoiding contact with other foods.

5. Follow the news and instructions from local authorities. If cases have been reported in your area, follow recommendations to reduce the risk of infection and limit movement.

6. Use protective gear. Wear a mask when in a crowded area or close to sick people. Use gloves and goggles when handling sick or potentially contaminated objects.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the signs that I have a fever of unknown origin?

Initial symptoms may include fever, night sweats, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you notice these symptoms, contact your healthcare professional.

What are the causes of fever of unknown origin?

Causes may vary, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, poisons, radiation, etc. But often the exact causes are not established, so such cases become called “of unknown origin.”

How is fever of unknown origin diagnosed?

Diagnosis can be difficult and includes laboratory tests to look for viruses, bacteria, or other diseases, as well as a physical examination to look for other symptoms and a physical examination.