How long does stomach flu typically last. What are the main symptoms of stomach flu. Can stomach flu be mistaken for food poisoning. How is stomach flu different from COVID-19. What are effective home remedies for stomach flu.

Understanding the Stomach Flu: Causes and Symptoms

The 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, and sometimes parasites. The primary culprit is often the norovirus, responsible for more than half of all cases.

Other viruses that can cause stomach flu include:

• Rotavirus
• Adenovirus
• Astrovirus

Bacterial causes may include:

• Salmonella
• E. coli
• Campylobacter

The symptoms of stomach flu can be quite uncomfortable and may include:

• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Body aches
• Low-grade fever
• Chills
• Fatigue

These symptoms typically appear within 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus or bacteria. The duration of the illness can vary significantly from person to person.

How long does stomach flu typically last?

The duration of stomach flu can range from one to 14 days, with most cases resolving within a few days. However, some individuals may experience lingering symptoms for up to two weeks. The severity and duration of symptoms often depend on the specific pathogen causing the illness and the individual’s immune system.

Differentiating Stomach Flu from Other Conditions

It’s crucial to distinguish stomach flu from other conditions with similar symptoms, such as food poisoning and COVID-19. While these illnesses may share some common characteristics, there are key differences that can help in identification.

Stomach Flu vs. Food Poisoning: What’s the difference?

While stomach flu and food poisoning can present with similar symptoms, the primary distinction lies in the onset and cause of the illness. Food poisoning typically occurs within hours of consuming contaminated food or drink, whereas stomach flu symptoms may take longer to develop.

Here are some key differences:

• Onset: Food poisoning symptoms usually appear 2-6 hours after eating contaminated food, while stomach flu symptoms may take 24-48 hours to develop.
• Duration: Food poisoning often resolves more quickly, usually within 1-3 days, compared to stomach flu which can last up to two weeks.
• Cause: Food poisoning is caused by consuming contaminated food or drink, while stomach flu is typically transmitted through person-to-person contact or touching contaminated surfaces.

Can stomach flu be mistaken for COVID-19?

Yes, stomach flu can sometimes be mistaken for COVID-19, as both conditions can cause gastrointestinal symptoms. However, there are important distinctions:

• COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system, with symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell.
• While about 20% of COVID-19 patients may experience gastrointestinal symptoms, these are usually accompanied by respiratory symptoms.
• Stomach flu typically doesn’t cause respiratory symptoms.

If you’re unsure about your symptoms or if they worsen over time, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional and consider getting tested for COVID-19.

Transmission and Prevention of Stomach Flu

Understanding how stomach flu spreads is crucial for preventing its transmission. The virus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, especially in close-contact environments like schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships.

How is stomach flu transmitted?

Stomach flu is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route. This means that virus particles from an infected person’s stool or vomit find their way into another person’s mouth. This can happen through:

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

It’s important to note that noroviruses, a common cause of stomach flu, can survive on surfaces for days, making them particularly easy to spread.

What are effective prevention strategies for stomach flu?

Preventing stomach flu involves practicing good hygiene and taking precautions to avoid contamination. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food.
2. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
3. Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly, particularly in the bathroom and kitchen.
4. Avoid preparing food for others when you’re sick.
5. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
6. Cook seafood properly, as noroviruses can survive temperatures as high as 140°F.
7. Stay home when you’re sick to avoid spreading the virus to others.

By following these prevention strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting or spreading stomach flu.

Home Remedies and Treatment for Stomach Flu

While there’s no specific medical treatment for viral gastroenteritis, several home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. The primary focus of treatment is managing symptoms and preventing dehydration.

What are effective home remedies for stomach flu?

Here are some proven home remedies to help you recover from stomach flu:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of clear fluids like water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen dehydration.
2. Rest: Allow your body time to fight the infection by getting plenty of rest.
3. Eat bland foods: Once you can keep food down, start with easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet).
4. Use over-the-counter medications: Antidiarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) can help reduce diarrhea in adults. However, consult a doctor before using these, especially for children.
5. Try ginger or peppermint: These natural remedies can help soothe nausea and stomach discomfort.
6. Probiotics: These beneficial bacteria can help restore balance to your gut microbiome and may shorten the duration of diarrhea.

Remember, while these remedies can help manage symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Stomach Flu

While most cases of stomach flu resolve on their own with home care, there are situations where medical attention is necessary. It’s important to recognize the signs that indicate a more serious condition or complications.

What are the warning signs that require medical attention?

Seek medical care if you or your child experience any of the following:

• Persistent vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down
• Bloody stools or severe abdominal pain
• Signs of severe dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urination, dizziness, extreme weakness)
• Fever above 102°F (39°C)
• Symptoms lasting more than a few days without improvement

For infants and young children, be particularly vigilant for signs of dehydration, such as dry diapers, lack of tears when crying, or unusual drowsiness.

Impact of Stomach Flu on Special Populations

While stomach flu can affect anyone, certain groups are at higher risk for complications and may require special care or medical attention.

How does stomach flu affect different age groups?

The impact of stomach flu can vary significantly across different age groups:

• Infants and young children: They are particularly susceptible to dehydration and may require prompt medical attention.
• Older adults: They may have weakened immune systems and be more prone to severe dehydration.
• Pregnant women: Severe dehydration can be dangerous for both the mother and the developing fetus.

These groups should be monitored closely and receive medical care if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Are there any special considerations for people with chronic illnesses?

Individuals with chronic health conditions may face additional risks when dealing with stomach flu:

• Diabetes: Stomach flu can affect blood sugar levels and make diabetes management more challenging.
• Heart conditions: Dehydration can strain the cardiovascular system.
• Kidney disease: Fluid and electrolyte imbalances can be particularly dangerous.
• Compromised immune systems: These individuals may experience more severe or prolonged symptoms.

If you have a chronic health condition, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing stomach flu.

Long-term Effects and Complications of Stomach Flu

While most people recover from stomach flu without lasting effects, in some cases, complications can arise. Understanding these potential long-term impacts is crucial for comprehensive care and prevention.

Can stomach flu lead to any long-term health issues?

Although rare, stomach flu can sometimes lead to more serious health problems:

• Chronic digestive issues: Some individuals may develop post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) following a severe bout of gastroenteritis.
• Lactose intolerance: Temporary lactose intolerance can occur after a stomach flu episode, usually resolving within a few weeks.
• Malnutrition: Prolonged or recurrent episodes of stomach flu can lead to nutrient deficiencies, especially in children and older adults.
• Reactive arthritis: In rare cases, certain types of gastroenteritis can trigger joint inflammation.

While these complications are uncommon, it’s important to be aware of them and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or new issues arise after recovering from stomach flu.

How can recurrent stomach flu episodes be prevented?

Frequent bouts of stomach flu can be distressing and potentially harmful. Here are strategies to reduce the risk of recurrent episodes:

1. Maintain rigorous hygiene practices, especially hand washing.
2. Be cautious about food and water consumption, particularly when traveling.
3. Strengthen your immune system through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.
4. Consider probiotics to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
5. Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, including rotavirus vaccines for infants.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing repeated stomach flu episodes.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Stomach Flu

The field of gastroenterology is continuously evolving, with researchers exploring new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat stomach flu. Understanding these developments can provide hope for improved management of this common illness in the future.

What new treatments are being developed for stomach flu?

Several promising areas of research are underway:

• Antiviral medications: Researchers are working on developing antiviral drugs specifically targeting norovirus and other gastroenteritis-causing viruses.
• Improved vaccines: While a rotavirus vaccine exists for infants, scientists are working on developing vaccines for other common causes of stomach flu, including norovirus.
• Microbiome-based therapies: Studies are exploring how manipulating the gut microbiome could prevent or treat gastroenteritis.
• Nanotechnology: Researchers are investigating nanoparticles that could potentially neutralize viruses in the digestive tract.

These developments hold promise for more effective prevention and treatment of stomach flu in the future.

How might our understanding of stomach flu change in the coming years?

As research progresses, our understanding of stomach flu is likely to evolve in several ways:

1. Better differentiation: Improved diagnostic tools may allow for quicker and more accurate identification of the specific pathogen causing the illness.
2. Personalized treatment: Advances in genomics and microbiome research may lead to more tailored treatment approaches based on individual factors.
3. Prevention strategies: Enhanced understanding of transmission mechanisms could lead to more effective prevention strategies.
4. Long-term effects: More research into the long-term impacts of stomach flu may reveal previously unknown connections to other health conditions.

These advancements could significantly improve our ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat stomach flu, potentially reducing its impact on global health.

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

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

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.

Was this helpful?

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.

Was this helpful?

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.

Abdominal pain and diarrhea | What to do with pain in the stomach and diarrhea

Author, editor and medical expert – Klimovich Elina Valerievna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Number of views: 2,495,906

Last updated: 002 Contents

• Causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea
• Some diseases that cause diarrhea and stomach pain
• When you need to see a doctor urgently
• What to do if your stomach hurts and you have diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the most common pathological symptoms occurring both in isolation and in combination with other manifestations of various diseases ² . About 1.7 billion cases are registered annually in the world ² . Most often they are associated with infections and poisonings ² , in which diarrhea usually accompanies abdominal pain and manifestations of intoxication. However, these same symptoms occur in other diseases.

Up to content

Causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea

These symptoms most often accompany diseases of the abdominal organs: stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts, pancreas, internal genital organs and bladder. The appearance of pain is provoked by spasms or stretching of the walls of hollow organs (intestines, stomach, gallbladder), stretching of the outer shell of the liver and pancreas, circulatory disorders and inflammation of the organs themselves, the membrane of the abdominal cavity covering them.

Physiological reasons for loose stools can be:

• increased secretion of fluid into the intestinal cavity due to its irritation, for example, bacterial toxins during food poisoning,
• accumulation in the small and large intestines of substances that attract water, as happens, in particular, with lactose intolerance;
• inflammation of the intestine, accompanied by the release of various fluids into it, for example, mucus, pus in ulcerative colitis;
• increased intestinal peristalsis, e. g. in irritable bowel syndrome,
• retarded motility, such as in scleroderma.

Diarrhea and abdominal pain often coexist because of the common cause. In particular, an increase in the volume of intestinal contents and the accumulation of gases that stretch the walls of the intestine lead to the appearance of pain. Inflammation, spasms, in turn, increase the symptoms of the disease.

Top of page

Some diseases that cause diarrhea and stomach pain

Diarrhea is divided into acute and chronic. Acute lasts up to 2 weeks ¹ . If liquid feces are observed for more than 4 weeks, they speak of a chronic form ² . Both options can be with the same diseases.

1. Intestinal infections and toxic infections

Acute diarrhea is most often of an infectious nature ¹ occurs as a result of pathogenic microorganisms or their toxins entering the body through the use of contaminated water and food, neglect of personal hygiene ¹ .

¹ :

• bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrios, Campylobacter, Yersinia;
• viruses, for example enteroviruses, rotaviruses or adenoviruses;
• various protozoa: amoeba dysentery, giardia, etc.

Loose stools can be from several to 30-40 times a day ¹ , often accompanied by cramping pain in the abdominal cavity, fever, weakness. The appearance of nausea, vomiting may be associated with damage to the stomach and small intestine, that is, with the development of gastroenteritis ¹ .

Nausea, weakness, abdominal pain and diarrhea, mucus and blood in the feces, false urge to defecate are more common with colitis, that is, inflammation of the colon ¹ .

Intestinal infections, especially in children, the elderly, are dangerous due to dehydration ¹ . Therefore, with frequent vomiting, the appearance of liquid feces in the stool, you need to contact an infectious disease specialist.

2. Traveler’s diarrhea

Most often it is encountered by tourists visiting Central and West Africa, India. What to do: Diarrhea and abdominal pain can be associated with changes in diet, water quality, acclimatization, jet lag, and other stresses. The causative agents of the infection are some strains of E. coli ¹ . Violation of the chair occurs upon arrival or in the first two days of stay in a new country, usually happens up to 3 times a day, is accompanied by cramping pain in the abdominal cavity, lasts an average of no more than a week ¹ , you can cope with it yourself. If symptoms persist for longer, a doctor’s consultation and examination are necessary.

3. Food allergy

More common intolerance to cow’s milk and products from it, as well as eggs, nuts, fish, cereals, strawberries, chocolate, coffee, tomatoes, etc. ² . Therefore, if every time after eating a particular product, loose stools appear and the stomach starts to hurt, then perhaps we are talking about an allergy.

Allergic stool disorders are associated with the action of inflammatory mediators ² . They cause swelling of the intestinal walls, increase the secretion of fluid into the intestinal cavity and cause its spasms.

Exclusion of allergenic foods from the diet contributes to the normalization of the condition. Their repeated inclusion in the diet leads to liquefaction of feces.

4. Lactase deficiency and celiac disease

Lactase deficiency is a congenital or acquired deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down cow’s milk protein, or lactose. Its classic manifestations are pain, bloating and loud rumbling in the abdominal cavity that occur after the consumption of dairy products, preceding the release of liquid stools with an unpleasant sour odor.

What to do for stomach pain and diarrhea in lactose intolerance? Of course, exclude milk and products in the manufacture of which it is used.

Celiac disease – intolerance to cereal protein, gluten. Wheat and rye contain the most gluten, so discomfort in the abdominal cavity often occurs after eating flour products. The exclusion of cereals from the diet contributes to the normalization of the condition.

5. Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder ² . The reason for its development is still unclear. It is believed that emotional factors, hormonal changes, nutrition, individual characteristics of intestinal motility play a certain role.

IBS often occurs with alternating constipation with loose stools. Diarrhea occurs mainly in the morning after breakfast, never bothers at night ² . It is accompanied by pulling pain in the lower half of the abdominal cavity, the release of a small amount of feces in the form of gruel. In some patients, the feces are dense, lumpy at the beginning of defecation, and then mushy or even watery. To restore the normal excretion of feces, it is necessary, first of all, to normalize the psychological state and hormonal levels.

6. Chronic enteritis

Chronic enteritis, or long-term inflammation of the small intestine, can develop as a result of malnutrition, autoimmune diseases, parasitic infections, long-term uncontrolled use of certain drugs, and other factors.

The disease is accompanied not only by a violation of the stool, but also by a change in the digestion of food, the assimilation of nutrients. Diarrhea occurs 1-3 times a day ^1.3 . There are many stools, they are watery, frothy. Pain sensations are localized mainly in the area on the left above the navel, are dull in nature, accompanied by rumbling and transfusion in the intestines. Prolonged indigestion leads to weight loss, deterioration of the skin, hair and nails, and the appearance of signs of hypovitaminosis. In severe cases, dehydration occurs, the work of all digestive organs and the endocrine system is disrupted. Treatment depends on the cause of the disease, including taking antidiarrheal drugs.

7.

Chronic colitis

Chronic colitis, or inflammation of the colon, also causes abdominal discomfort. Symptoms of exacerbation of the disease – aching pain in the lateral sections and lower abdomen, diarrhea 3-10 times a day ^1.3 . Unlike enteritis, the amount of feces is not increased, they look like gruel. Typical false urge to defecate with the release of a small amount of feces or just mucus.

If inflammation of the colon is accompanied by the formation of ulcers on its walls, as is the case with ulcerative colitis, intestinal spasms become severe, pus and blood appear in the stool, body temperature rises, weight loss is noted ^1.2 .

8. Other diseases

Violation of the stool, discomfort in the abdominal cavity can be associated not only with intestinal problems.

Diarrhea, heaviness in the left side are sometimes a sign of chronic pancreatitis ^1.3 . The cause of loose stools in this case is indigestion, which occurs due to a lack of pancreatic enzymes. Fecal masses have a fetid putrid odor, contain undigested food residues and fat.

Stomach pain and chronic diarrhea are sometimes signs of stomach cancer ³ . The disease is accompanied by a decrease in gastric secretion and acidity, which causes a rapid evacuation of the food eaten into the small intestine, the development of intestinal dysbacteriosis with its inherent symptom of diarrhea. Colon cancer can also lead to loose stools.

There are many reasons for the appearance of pain in the intestines and diarrhea, therefore, when they appear, you should consult a doctor and undergo an examination. Only a doctor can establish the true cause of violations, prescribe adequate treatment.

Back to top

When to see a doctor urgently

Abdominal pain with diarrhea should always be a concern. Short-term disturbance of the stool occurs in many acute diseases requiring surgical care ³ , for example, in the first stage of intestinal obstruction, biliary colic or appendicitis ³ .

You need to see a doctor urgently if:

• you have severe stomach pain and diarrhea;
• fever, chills appeared, the general condition continues to deteriorate;
• Pain is accompanied by tension in the anterior abdominal wall;
• vomiting is frequent, it does not bring relief;
• feces contain red blood or are black;
• Loss of liquid with liquid fecal masses cannot be compensated by the stool on its own due to incessant vomiting and diarrhea, the stomach hurts and it is not clear what to do;
• there are signs of dehydration: dry mucous membranes and plaque on the tongue, sunken eyes, pallor and grayish skin tone, confusion, lack of urination;
• diarrhea, pain in the abdominal cavity occurred in a small child, a pregnant woman, an elderly or debilitated person.

Back to content

What to do if you have a stomach ache and diarrhea

In case of acute diarrhea and pain in the abdominal cavity, qualified medical assistance is needed, so you need to call a doctor at home.

What to do before the consultation ^1.2 :

• stop eating,
• drink still mineral water,
• keep physical peace.

What not to do if you have a stomach ache and diarrhea:

• take medications, including antibiotics, painkillers, antispasmodics, antidiarrheals – they can “blur” the picture of the disease and make it difficult to diagnose;
• apply a heating pad to the sore spot – heat can contribute to the development of infection and inflammation;

Treatment of diarrhea includes prevention and control of dehydration, diet therapy and stool normalization.

1. Rehydration, or replenishment of the water-salt balance

To restore the water and electrolyte balance, it is not enough to use ordinary drinking water. Together with loose stools, the body loses a large amount of minerals. Therefore, for drinking it is better to use special solutions or mineral water of a high degree of mineralization without gas ^{1. 2} .

2. Diet

Meals should be fractional, but high in calories, so as not to overload the digestive system and compensate for the loss of nutrients.

From the diet it is necessary to exclude flour products from yeast dough, dairy products, fresh vegetables and fruits, eggs, legumes, coffee, carbonated drinks, kvass ¹ . Spicy, fatty, fried, spicy dishes, canned food, smoked meats, marinades are not recommended ¹ .

3. Drug therapy

All medicines are prescribed by a doctor, based on the diagnosis and characteristics of the course of the disease. These can be antibiotics, enterosorbents, probiotics, prebiotics, eubiotics, antidiarrheals ^1.2 . As the last component, IMODIUM® Express can be recommended.

The active substance of IMODIUM® Express – loperamide ⁴ – can act for 4-6 hours, can reduce intestinal peristalsis, slow down the movement of its contents, promote the absorption of water and electrolytes ⁵ . This drug is used in the treatment of acute, chronic diarrhea of ​​various origins in adults and children over 6 years of age ⁴ .

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.

“Imodium is contraindicated for use in children under 6 years of age.”

causes, what to do, how to treat

Causes of stomach pain

Stomach pain and diarrhea are caused by different factors. The disease depends on the frequency and intensity of pain, on their nature. Diarrhea is due to a lack of essential digestive enzymes in the body

Diagnosis of causes of pain

To determine the diagnosis, patients are referred for testing. We advise you to use the diagnostic services of the private medical clinic “KDS Clinic”. Specialists will conduct an initial consultation and examinations that will help diagnose diseases in the early stages. All examinations are carried out on modern equipment. Clinic experts are ready to help you at any time

Stomach pain symptoms

Severe stomach pain is considered a clear sign that you have problems with your gastrointestinal tract. In addition to diarrhea, patients have accompanying symptoms:

1. Gastrointestinal tract disorder

   Many people develop diarrhea, in the people – diarrhea, which indicates a violation of digestion. Diarrhea is caused by various factors. Intestinal upset continues several times a day. If this process lasts more than two days, then the patient has chronic diarrhea.

2. Nausea and vomiting

   Sometimes these symptoms are accompanied by bloody discharge. The patient feels cutting sharp pains in the stomach area

3. Fever

   When an infection affects the body, patients experience a fever. This indicates a serious infectious pathology

4. Lack of appetite

   This symptom is caused by gastritis and ulcers. With such diagnoses, the patient feels a cutting pain in the stomach

5. Bad breath

   This symptom indicates problems with the liver. It is necessary to enter a plentiful drink. A nutritionist will prescribe an individual diet for you to stabilize your body

6. Abdominal bloating or flatulence

   Indicates gastrointestinal problems

What else do severe cutting pains in the stomach indicate?

Pain in the stomach indicates a malfunction of the esophagus. Among them: liver disease, hepatitis, cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, inflammation of the gallbladder. If the localization of pain cannot be determined, then the symptoms are associated with neoplasms.

When the first complaints appear, we advise you to consult a gastroenterologist. The doctor will help to cure the body as quickly as possible. An accurate diagnosis is established after passing examinations and passing tests. Self-diagnosis at home is not possible.

Causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea

Experts categorize a number of underlying causes that cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.

1. Gastritis

   Diarrhea and cutting pains in the stomach are observed on an empty stomach or after eating, and patients also suffer from vomiting and heartburn. These symptoms are indicative of gastritis. If you start this process and do not go to the clinic on time, then gastritis can turn into a duodenal ulcer. They qualify gastritis with low acidity and gastritis with high acidity. The disease is established only with the help of tests and diagnostic examinations. Therefore, in order to avoid pain and worsening of the condition, contact a gastroenterologist who will prescribe the right treatment for you and select a diet. Endoscopist and gastroenterologist will help to establish an accurate diagnosis

2. Low immunity

   When immunity is weakened, a person begins to have problems with the stomach and other body systems. These processes occur most often in spring and autumn, when the immune system is weakened, and the body is susceptible to colds and diseases. Patients suffer from avitaminosis. An immunocompromised patient needs regular visits to an immunologist. He will prescribe treatment, a suitable diet that will improve the gastrointestinal tract. Patients are prescribed homeopathic treatment. It is effective

3. Eating disorders

   Stomach pain is caused by the food you eat. At the first manifestations of pain syndromes, you need to change your menu. It is necessary to pay attention to the relationship of pain with food intake and the nature of the food taken. You should add fruits and vegetables, meat and fish, as well as foods rich in vitamins and minerals to your diet. You will save your stomach from diseases and strengthen the whole body.

4. Duodenal ulcer

   This is one of the possible causes of diarrhea, flatulence and stomach pain. This disease appears with malnutrition, with the use of alcohol, fried, fatty and starchy foods. Unpleasant sensations and heartburn during an ulcer occur some time after eating. Pain syndrome occurs no later than one and a half hours after eating

5. Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract

   In this condition, a person experiences severe pain. To understand all the possible causes, it is necessary to establish the intensity of pain in the stomach, their frequency and nature. These data will help to establish accurate diagnoses and exclude other diseases

6. Emotional trauma and stress

   All emotional stress negatively affects the functionality of other organs, and the stomach is no exception. Many people get upset and have diarrhea from stress and anxiety

7. Excessive physical activity

   Strong physical activity, overwork and lack of proper sleep will immediately affect the gastrointestinal tract, complexion and other organs

8. Cholecystitis

   Cutting pain in the right hypochondrium indicates inflammation of the gallbladder

Diagnosis of stomach pain and diarrhea

An examination is individually selected for each patient.