Gastric Flu Treatment

Gastric flu, also called stomach flu, is not actually related to the influenza virus. However, that does not make the experience of gastric flu any more pleasant. This ailment, called Norovirus gastroenteritis or gastric flu, causes vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps in addition to headaches, muscle aches and general tiredness. Fortunately, the illness is usually fairly brief and the symptoms can be alleviated in a variety of medicinal and natural ways.

Significance

Gastric flu indicates the presence of a virus in your intestinal system. It basically means that something is going wrong in your stomach and your body is fighting to get that "something" out of your system. Generally, since this is an intestinal disorder, the symptoms will not include fever. If you do develop a fever, then you may need to visit your doctor to ensure that you have not developed some other type of infection. Gastric flu treatments generally are intended to alleviate symptoms as opposed to actually shorten the duration (one to two days) of the illness.

Types

In treating gastric flu, the most important issue to address is the dehydration that accompanies excessive vomiting. Particularly in children, dehydration can be fatal so it is important to drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not really feel like it. You also should try to stay as comfortable as possible, which can be difficult since you may first feel hot, then cold. Keep a blanket on hand so that you can quickly cover up and uncover when necessary. There are no vaccines for gastric flu and it cannot be treated with antibiotics. However, over-the-counter anti-nausea medicine may help some adults in particular, and nonprescription pain medication such as aspirin and ibuprofen may help with the muscle aches and headaches.

Misconceptions

Many people think that sports drinks will help with dehydration caused by vomiting more so than juice or water. However, the sugars in sports drinks not only can re-induce vomiting, thereby rendering the rehydration pointless, they also do not contain the proper nutrients and minerals. It is better to stick with watered-down juice and water during this illness.

Time Frame

The total span of gastric flu is generally about 48 hours. In children, vomiting may occur for the full 48 hours. In adults, the vomiting likely will be far less severe, and encompass less than 12 hours of the process. However, adults do tend to have more severe muscle aches and experience greater fatigue. If you actively work to remain hydrated and are careful to get plenty of rest, you can accelerate your recovery from gastric flu. However, if you do not treat yourself with the simple ways that will help you get through the illness as quickly and relatively painlessly as possible, you could remain sick for a longer period of time and could take as much as an extra week to fully recover.

Prevention/Solution

The best way to prevent gastric flu is to avoid people who already have it whenever possible. Some schools actually close to prevent children from sharing the infection. In addition, you should keep your hands scrupulously clean and cleanse all household surfaces with a household cleaner containing bleach.

Warning

If a person with gastric flu cannot stop vomiting long enough to drink liquids in order to remain hydrated, or if each time they drink something they immediately regurgitate it again, then it is vitally important that they see a doctor immediately. Dehydration is actually the biggest threat from this illness, and you must avoid this condition in order to recover.