Gastric Flu Symptoms & Treatment

Gastric flu is not really the flu, though it is often referred to as the stomach flu. Gastric flu is actually an infection in the intestines that can be caused by different viruses and it is contagious. After contracting the virus, symptoms and signs of gastric flu can appear within hours or within three to six days. The symptoms of gastric flu can vary from case to case, however there are some common symptoms.

Vomiting

Vomiting can be one of the primary symptoms of the gastric flu. Vomiting may be the only symptom, or it can be accompanied by other symptoms.

Diarrhea

Just like vomiting, diarrhea is another one of the primary symptoms of gastric flu. It can occur alone or with vomiting and other symptoms.

Nausea and Abdominal Pain

Nausea and stomach pain generally accompany most cases of gastric flu. They generally precede diarrhea and vomiting, or they can occur alone.

Flu-Like Symptoms

Gastric flu has many of the common symptoms of the regular flu. These include fever, body aches, chills, headache and fatigue. The gastric flu does not have any of the respiratory symptoms of the regular flu.

Duration

Gastric flu can last from one to five days. Some severe cases can last longer.

Treatment

There are no medications to cure gastric flu. It will have to run its course. People with the stomach flu can take medications to reduce fever and body aches. They should also drink small amounts of fluid often to prevent dehydration.

Resources

• EMedTV: Stomach Flu