Stomach Flu is an inflammatory illness that affects the intestines (irritated). It is usually referred to as a “stomach bug” or “Gastroenteritis is an inflammatory illness that affects the intestines (irritated). It is usually referred to as a “stomach bug” or “stomach flu” despite the fact that it is not limited to influenza. Gastroenteritis can affect your small intestine and colon, though stomach pain is the most prevalent symptom.” despite the fact that it is not limited to influenza. Gastroenteritis can affect your small intestine and colon, though stomach pain is the most prevalent symptom.

What is  Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)?

You may be diagnosed with “stomach flu” if you experience diarrhoea and vomiting. Gastroenteritis is the most common cause of these symptoms.
Your stomach and intestines are irritated and inflamed when you have gastroenteritis. In most cases, a viral or bacterial infection is to blame.
The signs and symptoms of a stomach virus
The following are some of the symptoms of Ftomach Flu :

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Chills
• Aches in the body
• Headache
• Pain, bloating, and cramping in the abdomen

When you have the stomach flu, it’s easy to become dehydrated, so drink plenty of water.

Children and Stomach Flu

Children can quickly get dehydrated, so if your child has the stomach flu, keep an eye out for signs of extreme thirst, dry skin, or a dry mouth. If you have a baby, seek for diapers that are smaller and dryer.

Children with gastroenteritis should be kept out of daycare or school until all symptoms have disappeared. Before giving your child any medication, consult your doctor. Anti-diarrhea and anti-vomiting medications are rarely administered to children under the age of five. There are two vaccines that can be given to newborns to help prevent rotavirus, the most common cause of stomach flu in children. Consult your doctor about vaccinations.

What are the symptoms of a Stomach virus?

A stomach virus can be caused by a number of things:
• Norovirus : This is the primary reason. This is the name of a viral family.
• Rotavirus : This is an infection caused by a virus. This is very prevalent in newborns and small children.

Infections of the stomach caused by viruses are infectious. A stomach virus is simple to catch and spread. Contact with an infected person, surface, or object spreads the virus. Stomach viruses are more likely to spread in crowded locations. Schools, daycares, elderly homes, airlines, cruise ships, and hospitals are all examples of this. Viruses of the stomach are widespread throughout the winter months.

How can you know if you have a Stomach virus?

Your doctor will examine you and ask you questions about your symptoms during the exam. You may be asked to produce a stool sample by your doctor. This is to rule out any other potential health issues.

Is it possible to prevent or avoid a Stomach virus?

A stomach virus cannot be prevented by a flu vaccination. The flu vaccine solely protects against the influenza virus. That’s a respiratory infection.
The norovirus has the ability to evolve throughout time. As a result, vaccinations are continuously being researched. There is a rotavirus vaccination available. Children should have a rotavirus vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There are two vaccinations available. They’ll need two to three doses. Prior to the age of eight months, children should receive the entire vaccine.

Following these steps will help you avoid or prevent a stomach virus :
• Hands should be washed frequently.
• When you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth and nose.
• In your house, business, and classroom, clean and disinfect surfaces and objects.
• After being in public, use hand sanitizer.
• Separate an ill person’s laundry from the rest of the family’s.
• Keep a safe distance from those who have the illness.

Treatment for the Stomach virus

A stomach virus can’t be cured with drugs. It has to finish what it started. There are a few things you may do to help alleviate symptoms:
• Consume bland foods.
• Drink clear, carbonated beverages (ginger ale is best).
• Keep yourself hydrated.

Dehydration is caused by vomiting, diarrhoea, and not eating or drinking. You may need to go to the hospital for IV fluids if you are dehydrated. To replace your fluids, a saline solution will be injected into your veins.The following are symptoms of dehydration :
• Urine that has a dark yellow colour to it.
• Thirst increases
• Feeling light-headed or fainting
• a fast heartbeat
• Breathing quickly
• Energy deficiency
• Confusion
• Irritability
• Babies will be irritable and cry (they will not have tears if they are dehydrated)

It is beneficial to drink water or sports drinks containing vitamins and nutrients. Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided.

Being infected with a Stomach virus

Stomach viruses are usually minor and fade away in 1 to 3 days on their own. Babies, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems should see a doctor straight away. This may help to keep their infection from worsening.

When should you go to the doctor if you have the Stomach Flu (gastroenteritis)?

You’ll probably be able to battle the stomach flu virus without visiting a doctor. If you notice indicators of dehydration (dark urine, infrequent/low urine production, dry mucous membranes, lightheadedness, dizziness, etc. ), seek medical attention immediately. Contact your healthcare practitioner if you have any of the following symptoms :
• A high temperature is seen.
• Diarrhea with blood.
• There is a lot of discomfort.
• Symptoms that do not improve or disappear with time.