What are the symptoms of stomach flu. How long does stomach flu typically last. How can you differentiate stomach flu from food poisoning. What are effective home remedies for stomach flu. How is stomach flu transmitted. Can stomach flu be mistaken for COVID-19. What foods should you eat and avoid during stomach flu.

Understanding Stomach Flu: Causes and Symptoms

Stomach flu, medically known as gastroenteritis, is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its name, it’s not actually related to influenza. Instead, it’s caused by various viruses, bacteria, or parasites that inflame the digestive tract.

The primary culprits behind stomach flu include:

• Norovirus (responsible for over 50% of cases)
• Rotavirus
• Salmonella
• E. coli

How does stomach flu manifest itself? The most common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Low-grade fever
• Chills
• Muscle aches

These symptoms can appear as quickly as 12 hours after exposure to the virus or bacteria. The duration of stomach flu varies, typically lasting anywhere from one to 14 days. This wide range can depend on the specific pathogen involved and the individual’s immune response.

The Highly Contagious Nature of Stomach Flu

One of the most concerning aspects of stomach flu is its highly contagious nature. The primary mode of transmission is the fecal-oral route, which means that virus particles from infected feces or vomit somehow make their way into the mouth of another person.

This transmission can occur through:

• Direct contact with an infected person
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face
• Consuming contaminated food or water

Why is stomach flu so easily spread? Noroviruses, the most common cause, can survive on surfaces for days, making it easy for them to spread in households, schools, and other communal spaces. This resilience contributes to the rapid spread of stomach flu, especially in close-contact environments.

Preventing the Spread of Stomach Flu

Given its contagious nature, preventing the spread of stomach flu is crucial. Here are some effective prevention strategies:

1. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food
2. Disinfect surfaces regularly, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens
3. Avoid preparing food for others when you’re sick
4. Stay home from work or school until symptoms subside
5. Wash contaminated clothing and bedding thoroughly

Distinguishing Stomach Flu from Food Poisoning

Given the similarity in symptoms, it’s often challenging to differentiate between stomach flu and food poisoning. Both conditions can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. However, there are some key distinctions that can help in identifying the culprit.

How can you determine if you have stomach flu or food poisoning? The timing of symptom onset is a crucial factor:

• Food poisoning symptoms typically appear within hours of consuming contaminated food
• Stomach flu symptoms usually develop more gradually, often 24-48 hours after exposure to the virus

Another differentiating factor is the scope of the illness. If multiple people who shared a meal are experiencing similar symptoms, food poisoning is more likely. On the other hand, if you’re the only one affected in your household or social group, it’s more probable that you’ve contracted a viral stomach flu.

Stomach Flu vs. COVID-19: Navigating the Confusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has added another layer of complexity to diagnosing gastrointestinal issues. While COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory illness, about 20% of patients report experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

How can you distinguish between stomach flu and COVID-19? Here are some key differences:

• Progression of symptoms: COVID-19 gastrointestinal symptoms often appear in the first couple of days and are followed by respiratory symptoms like cough, fever, and fatigue
• Duration: Stomach flu typically resolves within a few days, while COVID-19 symptoms can persist for weeks
• Additional symptoms: COVID-19 often includes loss of taste or smell, which is not associated with stomach flu

If you’re experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms and are concerned about COVID-19, it’s advisable to monitor for additional symptoms and consult with a healthcare provider about getting tested. Remember, regardless of the cause, it’s important to stay home when you’re sick to prevent spreading illness to others.

Effective Home Remedies for Stomach Flu

While there’s no specific medical treatment for viral gastroenteritis, several home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Hydration is Key

Maintaining proper hydration is crucial when battling stomach flu. The body loses significant fluids through vomiting and diarrhea, increasing the risk of dehydration. What should you drink?

• Water is always a good choice
• Sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade can help replace electrolytes (for older children and adults)
• Oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte (especially for babies and young children)

For children who are vomiting, try offering small amounts of fluid (a few teaspoons) every few minutes. Breastfed babies can continue to nurse.

2. Proper Nutrition

While it’s common to lose your appetite during stomach flu, proper nutrition can aid recovery. What foods should you eat?

• Bland, easily digestible foods like boiled potatoes, rice, plain cereals, and crackers
• Bananas, which can help replace potassium lost through diarrhea
• Clear soups to provide both hydration and some nutrients

It’s equally important to know what foods to avoid during stomach flu:

• Dairy products, which can be hard to digest
• Caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen dehydration
• Fatty or heavily seasoned foods that may irritate the stomach
• Sugary drinks like fruit juices or sodas, which can exacerbate diarrhea

3. Rest and Recovery

Adequate rest is essential for recovery from stomach flu. The illness itself, combined with potential dehydration, can cause significant fatigue. Allow your body the time it needs to fight off the infection by getting plenty of sleep and avoiding strenuous activities.

4. Over-the-Counter Medications

In some cases, over-the-counter medications may help alleviate symptoms. However, it’s important to use these cautiously and under appropriate circumstances:

• Adults under 65 with diarrhea but no fever or blood in stools can use anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) for 1-2 days
• Children and adults over 65 should consult a healthcare provider before taking any medications

It’s crucial to note that antibiotics are not effective against viral gastroenteritis and should not be used unless specifically prescribed by a doctor for bacterial infections.

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. When should you consult a doctor?

• Persistent vomiting that prevents keeping any liquids down
• Signs of severe dehydration (extreme thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness)
• Bloody stools or severe abdominal pain
• Fever above 104째F (40째C)
• Symptoms lasting more than a few days without improvement

For infants and young children, be especially vigilant. Seek immediate medical care if your child:

• Has a fever of 102째F (39째C) or higher
• Seems lethargic or very irritable
• Is in a lot of discomfort or pain
• Has signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or no wet diapers for 3 hours or more

Long-Term Prevention: Building a Strong Immune System

While it’s impossible to completely avoid exposure to the pathogens that cause stomach flu, maintaining a strong immune system can help your body fight off infections more effectively. How can you boost your immune system?

1. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
2. Get regular exercise
3. Ensure adequate sleep (7-9 hours for adults)
4. Manage stress through techniques like meditation or yoga
5. Stay up to date on vaccinations
6. Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking

Additionally, practicing good hygiene habits year-round can significantly reduce your risk of contracting stomach flu and other infectious diseases. This includes regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and maintaining clean living and work spaces.

The Impact of Stomach Flu on Special Populations

While stomach flu can affect anyone, certain groups may be more vulnerable to severe complications. Who is at higher risk?

• Infants and young children
• Older adults
• Pregnant women
• People with weakened immune systems
• Individuals with chronic health conditions

For these high-risk groups, prevention is particularly crucial. They should be extra vigilant about hygiene practices and may need to take additional precautions during outbreaks. If individuals in these groups contract stomach flu, they should be monitored closely and medical attention sought at the first sign of complications.

Stomach Flu in Children: Special Considerations

Children, especially young ones, are particularly susceptible to stomach flu. Their immune systems are still developing, and they may not have built up resistance to many common pathogens. Moreover, children are often in close contact with each other in school or daycare settings, facilitating the spread of viruses.

What special care do children with stomach flu need?

• Closer monitoring for signs of dehydration
• More frequent offering of fluids in small amounts
• Use of oral rehydration solutions specifically designed for children
• Gradual reintroduction of solid foods as symptoms improve

Parents and caregivers should also be aware that rotavirus, a common cause of severe diarrhea in infants and young children, can be prevented through vaccination. The rotavirus vaccine is typically given to babies as part of their regular immunization schedule.

The Role of Probiotics in Stomach Flu Recovery

Emerging research suggests that probiotics may play a beneficial role in the treatment and prevention of stomach flu. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.

How might probiotics help with stomach flu?

• Restoring balance to the gut microbiome disrupted by the infection
• Potentially reducing the duration and severity of diarrhea
• Enhancing the immune system’s response to pathogens

While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of probiotics on stomach flu, some studies have shown promising results. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables can be incorporated into the diet during recovery, as tolerated. Probiotic supplements are also available, but it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially during illness.

Environmental Factors and Stomach Flu: Beyond Personal Hygiene

While personal hygiene practices are crucial in preventing stomach flu, environmental factors also play a significant role in the spread of these infections. Understanding these factors can help in implementing broader prevention strategies.

Water Safety

Contaminated water is a common source of stomach flu outbreaks, particularly in developing countries or areas with compromised water treatment systems. How can water safety be ensured?

• Regular testing and maintenance of public water systems
• Use of water filters or purification methods in areas with questionable water quality
• Proper disposal of sewage and wastewater
• Avoiding consumption of untreated water from natural sources

Food Handling Practices

Improper food handling can lead to contamination and subsequent stomach flu outbreaks. What measures can be taken to ensure food safety?

• Thorough washing of fruits and vegetables
• Proper cooking temperatures for meats and seafood
• Regular cleaning and sanitizing of food preparation surfaces
• Strict adherence to food safety guidelines in restaurants and food service industries

Public Health Measures

Public health initiatives play a crucial role in preventing and controlling stomach flu outbreaks. What strategies can be implemented at a community level?

• Public education campaigns about hygiene and disease prevention
• Rapid response to outbreaks, including contact tracing and containment measures
• Vaccination programs, particularly for rotavirus in children
• Regular inspections of food service establishments

By addressing these environmental factors alongside personal prevention measures, communities can significantly reduce the incidence and spread of stomach flu.

The Economic Impact of Stomach Flu

While often viewed as a minor inconvenience, stomach flu can have significant economic implications, both for individuals and society as a whole. What are the economic consequences of stomach flu outbreaks?

• Lost productivity due to missed work days
• Healthcare costs for treatment and hospitalization in severe cases
• Economic losses in the food service industry during outbreaks
• Costs associated with implementing prevention measures in public spaces

In the United States alone, it’s estimated that norovirus, the most common cause of stomach flu, results in approximately 21 million cases annually, leading to 71,000 hospitalizations and 800 deaths. The economic burden is substantial, with direct healthcare costs and lost productivity amounting to billions of dollars each year.

These economic impacts underscore the importance of effective prevention strategies and prompt treatment of stomach flu. By reducing the incidence and severity of outbreaks, we can not only improve public health but also mitigate the associated economic costs.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Stomach Flu Management

The field of gastroenterology is continually evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving our understanding and management of stomach flu. What are some promising areas of research?

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 & causes

Overview

Viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection that includes signs and symptoms such as watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea or vomiting, and sometimes fever.

The most common way to develop viral gastroenteritis — often called stomach flu — is through contact with an infected person or by consuming contaminated food or water. If you’re otherwise healthy, you’ll likely recover without complications. But for infants, older adults and people with compromised immune systems, viral gastroenteritis can be deadly.

There’s no effective treatment for viral gastroenteritis, so prevention is key. Avoid food and water that may be contaminated and wash your hands thoroughly and often.

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Symptoms

Although it’s commonly called stomach flu, gastroenteritis isn’t the same as influenza. The flu (influenza) affects only your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Gastroenteritis, on the other hand, attacks your intestines, causing signs and symptoms such as:

• Watery, usually nonbloody diarrhea — bloody diarrhea usually means you have a different, more severe infection
• Nausea, vomiting or both
• Stomach cramps and pain
• Occasional muscle aches or headache
• Low-grade fever

Depending on the cause, viral gastroenteritis symptoms may appear within 1-3 days after you’re infected and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms usually last just a day or two, but occasionally they may last up to 14 days.

Because the symptoms are similar, it’s easy to confuse viral diarrhea with diarrhea caused by bacteria, such as Clostridioides difficile, salmonella and Escherichia coli, or parasites, such as giardia.

Viral gastroenteritis

The stomach, small intestine and large intestine (colon) are part of your digestive tract, which processes the foods you eat. Viral gastroenteritis is an inflammation of these organs caused by a virus.

When to see a doctor

If you’re an adult, call your health care provider if:

• You’re not able to keep liquids down for 24 hours
• You’ve been vomiting or having diarrhea for more than two days
• You’re vomiting blood
• You’re dehydrated — signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth, deep yellow urine or little or no urine, and severe weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness
• You notice blood in your bowel movements
• You have severe stomach pain
• You have a fever above 104 F (40 C)

For infants and children

See your child’s health care provider right away if your child:

• Has a fever of 102 F (38.9 C) or higher
• Seems tired or very irritable
• Is in a lot of discomfort or pain
• Has bloody diarrhea
• Seems dehydrated — watch for signs of dehydration in sick infants and children by comparing how much they drink and urinate with how much is normal for them, and watching for signs such as a dry mouth, thirst and crying without tears

If you have an infant, remember that while spitting up may be an everyday occurrence for your baby, vomiting is not. Babies vomit for a variety of reasons, many of which may require medical attention.

Call your baby’s doctor right away if your baby:

• Has vomiting that is frequent
• 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

Causes

You’re most likely to get viral gastroenteritis when you eat or drink contaminated food or water. You may also be likely to get gastroenteritis if you share utensils, towels or food with someone who has one of the viruses that cause the condition.

Many viruses can cause gastroenteritis, including:

• Noroviruses. Both children and adults are affected by noroviruses, the most common cause of foodborne illness worldwide. Norovirus infection can sweep through families and communities. It’s especially likely to spread among people in confined spaces.

  In most cases, you pick up the virus from contaminated food or water. But it can also spread between people who are in close contact or who share food. You can also get the virus by touching a surface that’s been contaminated with norovirus and then touching your mouth.

• Rotavirus. Worldwide, this is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis in children, who are usually infected when they put their fingers or other objects contaminated with the virus into their mouths. It can also spread through contaminated food. The infection is most severe in infants and young children.

  Adults infected with rotavirus may not have symptoms, but can still spread the illness. This is of particular concern in institutional settings such as nursing homes because adults with the virus unknowingly can pass the virus to others. A vaccine against viral gastroenteritis is available in some countries, including the United States, and appears to be effective in preventing the infection.

Some shellfish, especially raw or undercooked oysters, also can make you sick. Contaminated drinking water is a cause of viral diarrhea. But in many cases the virus is passed when someone with a virus handles food you eat without washing his or her hands after using the toilet.

Risk factors

Gastroenteritis occurs all over the world and can affect people of all ages.

People who may be more susceptible to gastroenteritis include:

• Young children. Children in child care centers or elementary schools may be especially vulnerable because it takes time for a child’s immune system to mature.
• Older adults. Adult immune systems tend to become less efficient later in life. Older adults in nursing homes are vulnerable because their immune systems weaken. They also live in close contact with others who may pass along germs.
• Schoolchildren or dormitory residents. Anywhere that groups of people come together in close quarters can be an environment for an intestinal infection to get passed.
• Anyone with a weakened immune system. If your resistance to infection is low — for instance, if your immune system is compromised by HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy or another medical condition — you may be especially at risk.

Each gastrointestinal virus has a season when it’s most active. If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, for instance, you’re more likely to have rotavirus or norovirus infections in the winter and spring.

Complications

The main complication of viral gastroenteritis is dehydration — a severe loss of water and essential salts and minerals. If you’re healthy and drink enough to replace fluids you lose from vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration shouldn’t be a problem.

Infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems may become severely dehydrated when they lose more fluids than they can replace. Hospitalization might be needed so that lost fluids can be replaced through an IV in their arms. Dehydration can rarely lead to death.

Prevention

The best way to prevent the spread of intestinal infections is to follow these precautions:

• Get your child vaccinated. A vaccine against gastroenteritis caused by the rotavirus is available in some countries, including the United States. Given to children in the first year of life, the vaccine appears to be effective in preventing severe symptoms of this illness.

• Wash your hands thoroughly. And make sure your children do, too. If your children are older, teach them to wash their hands, especially after using the toilet.

  Wash your hands after changing diapers and before preparing or eating food, too. It’s best to use warm water and soap and to rub hands well for at least 20 seconds. Wash around cuticles, beneath fingernails and in the creases of the hands. Then rinse thoroughly. Carry sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer for times when soap and water aren’t available.

• Use separate personal items around your home. Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses and plates. Use separate towels in the bathroom.
• Prepare food safely. Wash all your fruits and vegetables before eating them. Clean kitchen surfaces before preparing food on them. Avoid preparing food if you’re sick.
• Keep your distance. Avoid close contact with anyone who has the virus, if possible.
• Disinfect hard surfaces. If someone in your home has viral gastroenteritis, disinfect hard surfaces, such as counters, faucets and doorknobs, with a mixture of 5-25 tablespoons (73 to 369 milliliters) of household bleach to 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water.
• Avoid touching laundry that may have been exposed to a virus. If someone in your home has viral gastroenteritis, wear gloves while touching laundry. Wash clothing and bedding in hot water and dry them on the hottest setting. Wash your hands well after touching laundry.
• Check out your child care center. Make sure the center has separate rooms for changing diapers and preparing or serving food. The room with the diaper-changing table should have a sink as well as a sanitary way to dispose of diapers.

Take precautions when traveling

When you’re traveling in other countries, you can become sick from contaminated food or water. You may be able to reduce your risk by following these tips:

• Drink only well-sealed bottled or carbonated water.
• Avoid ice cubes because they may be made from contaminated water.
• Use bottled water to brush your teeth.
• Avoid raw food — including peeled fruits, raw vegetables and salads — that has been touched by human hands.
• Avoid undercooked meat and fish.

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Prolonged subfebrile condition – causes of the disease, which doctor treats, diagnosis, prevention and treatment

Description

Prolonged subfebrile condition describes a condition when a person’s body temperature is kept below 38 ° C, but at the same time above the norm (about 36. 6 ° C) over a long period of time, usually several weeks or months. Usually, subfebrile temperature can be noted during the day, especially in the evening, when it can rise to 37.2-37.5°C.

This condition may be accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, weight loss, sweating and weakness. Although prolonged subfebrile condition is not necessarily a sign of any serious illness, it may indicate the presence of an underlying inflammatory process or other disease.

Possible causes of prolonged low-grade fever include: infections (eg, tuberculosis), diseases of the immune system (eg, rheumatoid arthritis), cancer, chronic inflammatory diseases (eg, Crohn’s disease), and stress and depression.

If you have a prolonged low-grade fever, it is recommended to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The doctor may recommend various tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, and others, to identify the cause of the condition and determine the necessary treatment.

Why is prolonged low-grade fever dangerous? The cause of this condition can be serious, and if it is not detected and treated in time, various complications can occur, depending on the cause.

For example, if prolonged low-grade fever is caused by an infection, it can progress to more serious consequences such as sepsis or complications of the lungs, liver, or kidneys.

If the cause is a disease of the immune system, destruction of tissues and organs can occur, leading to complications of the corresponding disease.

Also, prolonged low-grade fever can be associated with stress and depression, which in turn can lead to other health problems, including cardiovascular disease and diseases of the digestive system.

Therefore, if you have prolonged low-grade fever, it is recommended that you see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment in order to rule out serious causes and prevent possible complications.

Physiological causes of prolonged subfebrile condition

Physiological causes of prolonged subfebrile condition may include:

1. Periods of increased activity of the immune system, such as inflammation or tumor growth. In this case, subfebrile temperature can be caused by an increase in the production of cytokines, proteins that are involved in the regulation of the immune system and inflammatory processes.

2. Menstrual cycle. In women, low-grade fever may occur before and during menstruation due to changes in hormone levels.

3. Physical activity. With active training or heavy physical exertion, subfebrile temperature may be observed.

4. Elevated ambient temperature. In hot weather or high humidity, body temperature may be slightly elevated.

5. Early morning. For most people, body temperature can be slightly below normal in the early morning.

Although the physiological causes of prolonged low-grade fever may be harmless, if you notice such changes in body temperature, you should consult a doctor to rule out serious causes and complications.

Pathological causes of prolonged subfebrile condition

Pathological causes of prolonged subfebrile condition may be associated with various diseases and conditions, including:

1. Chronic infections such as tuberculosis, brucellosis, cytomegalovirus infection, etc.

2. Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.

3. Various types of tumors, including lymphoma, leukemia, lung cancer, etc.

4. Chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis.

5. Thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism.

6. Autoimmune diseases such as adult Still’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, etc.

7. Chronic bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, etc.

8. Hematopoietic disorders such as myelodysplastic syndrome, etc.

9. Metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism.

10. Other diseases and conditions such as diseases of the nervous system, systemic diseases of the connective tissue, etc.

In any case, if you have a prolonged subfebrile condition, you need to see a doctor who can conduct an examination and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Accompanying symptoms

Accompanying symptoms of prolonged subfebrile condition depend on the cause of this condition. In general, in addition to elevated body temperature (usually up to 37.2-38 °C), the following symptoms may be observed:

1. Fatigue and weakness

2. Headache

3. Pain in muscles and joints

4. Loss of appetite

5. Weight Loss

6. Insomnia or excessive sleepiness

7. Sore throat

8. Cough

9. Nasal congestion

10. Digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.

If prolonged low-grade fever is associated with a chronic disease, specific symptoms characteristic of this disease may also be present. For example, with hepatitis, there may be jaundice and pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, and with systemic lupus erythematosus, skin rashes and lesions of internal organs.

If you have prolonged low-grade fever with any additional symptoms, you should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

What are the scenarios

Prolonged subfebrile condition can have different scenarios depending on its causes.

1. Improved condition. If prolonged subfebrile condition is due to physiological causes, for example, fatigue or stress, then after the elimination of their effects, an improvement in the condition may occur. Also, if the infection has been treated adequately, the patient may also experience improvement.

2. Status continuation. If prolonged low-grade fever is associated with a chronic disease, then this condition can continue for a long time. In this case, the patient may be offered treatment for the underlying disease and measures to reduce the temperature.

3. Development of complications. If prolonged subfebrile condition is caused by an infection, then complications may develop, such as sepsis or meningitis. Therefore, with prolonged subfebrile condition, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor to identify the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

4. Development of new symptoms. Some diseases that can cause prolonged low-grade fever may lead to the development of new symptoms or complications over time. Therefore, it is important to monitor your condition and seek medical attention in a timely manner if new symptoms occur or existing ones worsen.

What diseases can cause prolonged subfebrile condition

Prolonged subfebrile condition can be associated with various diseases, including:

1. Chronic infections such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, pneumonia, malaria, hepatitis and others.

2. Autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory myopathy, and others.

3. Oncological diseases, including lymphoma, leukemia, sarcoma and others.

4. Chronic bowel diseases such as gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, ulcerative colitis.

5. Hormonal disorders, eg hypothyroidism.

6. Chronic liver disease, eg cirrhosis of the liver.

7. Rheumatic diseases, eg rheumatic fever.

8. Other chronic diseases such as chronic heart failure, kidney disease, diabetes and others.

It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and prolonged low-grade fever may be associated with other diseases or factors, such as drug side effects or subclinical infection. In the presence of prolonged subfebrile condition, it is necessary to consult a doctor to identify the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

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What examinations to undergo

With prolonged subfebrile condition, the doctor may prescribe a number of examinations to identify the cause of the symptom. Depending on the preliminary diagnosis and clinical manifestations, the following tests may be prescribed:

1. Complete blood count, which may show inflammation or infection.

2. Blood chemistry, including liver function, kidney function, glucose and hormone levels.

3. Urinalysis for infection or other abnormalities.

4. Bacteriological examination such as sputum or feces for the presence of infectious agents.

5. Immunological tests, for example, for autoantibodies in suspected autoimmune disease.

6. X-ray examinations, such as a chest x-ray for suspected infection in the lungs.

7. Ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity and small pelvis.

8. Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for suspected cancer.

All these studies will help to identify the cause of prolonged subfebrile condition and determine the necessary treatment. It is important to consult a doctor with prolonged low-grade fever so as not to miss a possible symptom of a serious illness.

How to remove

Prolonged subfebrile condition is a symptom, not an independent disease, therefore it must be treated by eliminating the underlying cause. Treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis.

For example, if prolonged low-grade fever is caused by a bacterial infection, a course of antibiotics may be required. If the cause is inflammation or an autoimmune disease, then anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticosteroids, or immunomodulators may be prescribed.

In some cases, prolonged subfebrile condition can be caused by a deficiency of vitamins or minerals. In such cases, the additional use of appropriate drugs can help eliminate the symptom.

In any case, self-medication is not recommended. If you have prolonged low-grade fever, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Where to see a doctor

If you have a prolonged subfebrile condition, you should see a general practitioner. The therapist will conduct an examination, collect an anamnesis and determine further directions for examination and treatment. If necessary, the therapist may refer you to another specialist, such as an infectious disease specialist, gastroenterologist, rheumatologist, oncologist, etc., depending on the suspected cause of prolonged low-grade fever.

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Diseases

What to do with a temperature without symptoms of the disease > Rubric in Samara

A temperature that does not differ much from the norm, but is already a sign of ill health, is usually called subfebrile in medicine.

In this situation, the thermometer may show 37.0 – 37.5°C for a long time. Sometimes the indicators can reach 37.9 ° C. If no other symptoms bother a person, doctors will have to conduct a series of additional tests to understand the cause. Prolonged subfebrile temperature is a special subject of study in therapeutic practice. Patients with such complaints come to the appointment quite often. According to statistics, in 70 – 80% of cases, protracted subfebrile condition occurs in young women with signs of asthenia, in those who suffer from increased fatigue, weakness, irritability, nervousness, have sleep disturbances and other psychopathological disorders. If the fever persists for more than a month or two, then a comprehensive examination is necessary.

Causes

Increased body temperature is caused by certain proteins – pyrogens. They can enter the body from the external environment or be produced spontaneously inside it. These proteins have a connection with the hypothalamus, activate the immune system and affect the general well-being of a person.

In some cases, subfebrile temperature may indicate that an infection with a disease has occurred. In others – about a malfunction in the body. Also, sometimes there are congenital pathologies that cause an increase in temperature.

Disorder of thermoregulation can serve as one of the signs of vegetovascular dystonia. With such a disease, a temperature often appears without symptoms of a cold. A person complains of heaviness in the head, weakness, pain. The heat in the body is abruptly replaced by chills. Cold palms and feet may indicate the local nature of thermoregulation failures. In most patients with dystonia, fever can persist for up to several months.

There are cases when low-grade fever causes an increase in the number of simple microbes, which in normal times are not dangerous. This is due to a weakened immune system. The reason for the increase in temperature can also be autoimmune processes, when the body’s defenses mistakenly begin to attack healthy tissue.

— In case of any increase in temperature, you should contact your local doctor. The specialist will first prescribe a general blood and urine test. Based on their results, he will decide on further examination and treatment. In general, absolutely any stress, including emotional stress, can affect the increase in body temperature. Oleg Fatenkov, chief therapist of the Samara region

In addition, doctors say that often a temperature of 37.0 – 37.5 ° C is a sign of an allergy of a latent or overt course. If the indicator reaches 38 ° C and lasts for a long time, then this can be a sign of serious diseases: bronchitis, sinusitis, tuberculosis, latent infections, tumor processes.

Subfebrile condition can also be caused by changes in temperature, stress, hormonal imbalance, and taking certain medications.

What to do?

In any case, a visit to a specialist is necessary. Do not try to bring down the temperature at home with drugs without the advice of a doctor.