Stomach flu is a common illness that can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Most cases of stomach flu resolve within a few days, but some people may experience a recurrence of symptoms after a few days. If you are experiencing a recurrence of symptoms after having stomach flu, it may be because the virus has not completely cleared from your system. In some cases, the virus may remain in your system for up to 10 days.
What are the symptoms of stomach flu?
The symptoms of stomach flu can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
How is stomach flu spread?
Stomach flu is spread through contact with contaminated food or water. The virus can also be spread through contact with an infected person.
How is stomach flu treated?
There is no specific cure for stomach flu. Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration. Some of the common treatments for stomach flu include:
- Rest
- Fluids
- Electrolytes
- Over-the-counter medications
Can stomach flu return after 10 days?
Yes, stomach flu can return after 10 days. This is because the virus may not have completely cleared from your system. In some cases, the virus may remain in your system for up to 10 days.
What are the complications of stomach flu?
In most cases, stomach flu is a mild illness that resolves within a few days. However, in some cases, stomach flu can lead to complications, such as:
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Seizures
- Encephalitis
- Guillain-Barré syndrome
How can I prevent stomach flu?
There are a number of things you can do to prevent stomach flu, including:
- Washing your hands frequently
- Avoiding contact with people who are sick
- Eating only cooked food
- Drinking only clean water
- Getting vaccinated against stomach flu
FAQs
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Can stomach flu be cured?
There is no specific cure for stomach flu. Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration. -
How long does stomach flu last?
Most cases of stomach flu resolve within a few days. However, some people may experience a recurrence of symptoms after a few days. -
Can stomach flu be prevented?
There are a number of things you can do to prevent stomach flu, including: washing your hands frequently, avoiding contact with people who are sick, eating only cooked food, drinking only clean water, and getting vaccinated against stomach flu. -
What are the complications of stomach flu?
In most cases, stomach flu is a mild illness that resolves within a few days. However, in some cases, stomach flu can lead to complications, such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, seizures, encephalitis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. -
When should I see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:- Symptoms that last for more than 2 days
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or rapid heart rate
- Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
- Blood in your vomit or stool
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How can I treat stomach flu at home?
There are a number of things you can do to treat stomach flu at home, including:- Rest
- Fluids
- Electrolytes
- Over-the-counter medications
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What are the best foods to eat when you have stomach flu?
The best foods to eat when you have stomach flu are bland foods that are easy to digest, such as:- Bananas
- Rice
- Oatmeal
- Yogurt
- Soup
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What are the worst foods to eat when you have stomach flu?
The worst foods to eat when you have stomach flu are foods that are high in fat, fiber, or spice, such as:- Fried foods
- Fatty meats
- Raw vegetables
- Spicy foods