Stomach Flu

STOMACH FLU

Stomach flu. A virus-induced inflammation of the stomach and intestines, commonly referred to as “stomach flu,” usually causes vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Although it is a widely used term, it is not medically correct because it is not brought on by the influenza virus. Usually, the sickness is mild and self-limiting, and its symptoms go away in a few days.

STOMACH FLU

A viral infection called stomach flu can infect your intestines and stomach. Viral gastroenteritis is the phrase used in medicine. Enter signifies small intestine, and gastro means stomach. “It is” is an acronym for inflammation, which is typically brought on by an illness. “Viral” also indicates that the infection was brought on by a virus. GI symptoms such as cramping in the abdomen, diarrhea, and nausea are brought on by stomach flu. You could also refer to it as a “stomach bug.” The symptoms of a stomach bug are identical whether the cause is a virus, bacteria, or parasite. It may be difficult for you to determine whether your problem is a virus or not.

Symptoms

The following are the most typical signs of stomach flu:

Diarrhea.
vomiting and nausea.
appetite loss.
cramps and pain in the abdomen.
Your intestines and stomach are inflamed, which causes these symptoms. Although the term “gastritis” describes inflammation in the stomach and small intestine, it can also migrate to the large intestine. Your immune system kicking in to combat the pathogen is called inflammation.

Causes

Norovirus. With an estimated 50% of cases occurring globally, this is the most common cause of stomach flu in adults. Compared to others, it is more resilient to disinfectants and temperature changes.
Rotavirus. The most common cause of stomach flu in children worldwide is rotavirus. Most adults are immune because most contract it before the age of three. A vaccination is now available.
Astrovirus. Children under three are most commonly affected by astroviruses. They frequently spread via childcare facilities. However, elder care facilities are another way they might spread.
Adenovirus. Although adenoviruses are more likely to cause respiratory infections, they can also inadvertently cause stomach infections. All ages are infected by them.

Treatment

The stomach flu is eliminated by your immune system using its own natural mechanisms. It completes its task in a matter of days. Even though they are unpleasant, your symptoms indicate that your immune system is functioning properly. The stomach flu has no known cure. Antibiotics treat bacterial illnesses; they do not treat viruses.

Resting at home, drinking plenty of water, and eating a little, if you can, are the greatest ways to support your immune system. Provide the energy your body requires to combat the infection. Suck on ice chips or take tiny sips throughout the day before you feel thirsty to keep hydrated.

Prevention

Handwashing
Since hand sanitizer isn’t always effective, proper handwashing is the most vital prevention against stomach flu viruses. It’s particularly crucial before coming into touch with food and after using the restroom or changing a diaper.

Cleaning
Any surfaces or objects that you or the infected individual have come into contact with should be cleaned and disinfected. Particularly in the restroom, disinfect surfaces using a solution of bleach and water (up to 25 teaspoons per gallon). When washing garments and bed linens, use the high heat setting on your washing machine.

Summary

At some point, almost everyone suffers stomach flu. It may recur since it can be caused by a variety of viruses. In addition to having a higher chance of contracting it from their communities, individuals in care facilities and children attending childcare centers and schools may also have more severe symptoms.