How to Recover From a Stomach Flu
There is no cure for the stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis). Because it is a virus, antibiotics are ineffective and there currently are no anti-viral medications that work for the stomach flu. Treatment is aimed at easing symptoms and preventing dehydration. Symptoms of the stomach flu typically last from one to three days. Generally, the stomach flu is a mere nuisance and harmless. The biggest concern associated with the virus is dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea.
Instructions
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Prevent dehydration by drinking fluids. If it is difficult to keep fluids down due to vomiting or upset stomach, drink one sip of fluid every 30 minutes until your stomach settles. Water and juice are good choices to keep the body hydrated. If juice is too harsh on your stomach, try diluting it with water.
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Take over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medicine if diarrhea is severe.
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Replenish the digestive system with beneficial bacteria by taking Lactobacillus acidophilus. Vomiting and diarrhea can take the digestive systems bacteria levels out of balance. Taking over-the-counter Lactobacillus acidophilus supplements helps to bring the digestive bacteria to a normal level. Lactobacillus acidophilus is available for purchase at health food stores and some drugstores.
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Eat bland foods such as crackers, white bread and white rice until vomiting and stomach queasiness has subsided. If you cannot hold down food, try eating only one bite of food every 20 minutes.
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Rest until you feel better so that your body can use its energy toward healing.
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Tips & Warnings
The stomach virus is very contagious. It is spread through close contact with infected people. Wash hands frequently, especially after going to the bathroom or touching food, to reduce the chance of spreading the virus.
See a doctor if you go for more than 6 hours without being able to hold down fluid. See a doctor if symptoms do not subside after three days. There are other illnesses that mimic the stomach flu. Seek medical attention if you have a fever over 100.5 degrees F.
