Gastroenteritis is Not a Flu
Influenza Affects the Respiratory System with Specific Symptoms
Jan 7, 2008
Such symptoms as a runny nose, sneezing, productive cough or nausea, diarrhea and vomiting are also not indicative of influenza. They can be symptoms of colds, allergy or complications after a bout with the flu, or possibly result from reactions to medications used to treat flu symptoms.
Stomach Flu Is a Misnomer
There is no such thing as a "stomach flu" but viruses that produce symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are highly contagious and can spread rapidly through a community, school or workforce. These can include norovirus and rotavirus which occurs in small children.
These viruses are not affected by antibiotics, and are not caused by parasites or bacteria. The symptoms usually appear suddenly and the illness lasts only a day or two. Symptoms include low-grade fever, chills, body aches, a general feeling of tiredness, headache, nausea and vomiting. Children usually experience much more vomiting than adults because adults can exercise some control over holding things down.
Because of the rapid onset of symptoms, "food poisoning" is often blamed by the patient for the brief illness, when indeed it actually may be a virus.
Norovirus and Rotavirus
The norovirus and rotavirus are found in the stool and vomitus of the infected person. Effective handwashing by the ill person as well as anyone assisting or caring for the infected person is essential to slowing or preventing the spread of the virus which is highly contagious. Handling such items as soiled clothing, diapers, linens, and eating utensils can be a source of spreading the virus.
Handwashing Helps Stop Spread
If the infected person does not wash his/her hands effectively after using the toilet or vomiting, they may spread the virus to surfaces. Then when another person touches the same surfaces and then touches their mouth or food, the virus is contracted.
Hand sanitizers have been shown to be effective in preventing the spread of these viruses, and in the absence of soap and water are highly recommended. Care should be taken in using these sanitizers due to the flammability of the high alcohol content.
Watch for Dehydration
These viruses are usually not serious and patients feel better within a couple of days. Treatment involves rest, and fluid replacement (drinking lots of liquids). Clear liquids such as water, white soda (ginger ale, Sprite, Seven Up), apple juice, Jello, broth, tea are the easiest to keep down. Small frequent sips are recommended. Ice chips can be beneficial, but many complain that cold items can cause more nausea or vomiting. Liquids at room temperature or warm such as tea, can be more easily taken and digested.
Pediatricians often recommend an electrolyte replacement such as Pedialite (TM) . Adults can use this as well or use something such as Gatorade (R).
Fluid replacement is essential when the patient is experiencing vomiting and diarrhea. This can be difficult to achieve and dehydration can quickly result. This is especially true for the elderly, young children and anyone who has a weakened or compromised immune system. If the patient is unable to drink or keep liquids down for more than 24 hours, consult a physician.
Keep Diet Simple
Crackers, dry toast, applesauce and white rice can be added as able and the diet should remain bland and soft for one to two days as recovery begins to take hold.
Call the Physician
Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can be taken for aches, pain and fever, if not otherwise contraindicated. They should be taken with some food such as crackers or toast. Aspirin should never be given to children under 12 and especially not with symptoms of gastroenteritis or influenza. Consult a physician before giving children any medication.
If the patient, of any age, has underlying chronic illnesses, a physician should also be consulted. If symptoms worsen or don't show signs of subsiding in 1-2 days, consult a physician.
Tips For Avoiding the Flu and Other Viruses
