Intestinal Flu

Intestinal flu or viral gastroenteritis is caused by the viruses, that damage the lining of the stomach and intestine. However, contrary to the name, 'intestinal flu', it is not caused by influenza virus. In general, gastroenteritis refers to infection of the stomach and intestine, that can be caused by virus, bacteria, parasites and protozoa. Even certain medications can alter the stomach acidity and thereby, destroy the beneficial bacteria and promote the overgrowth of disease causing bacteria, which can lead to infection of the intestine and stomach, or gastroenteritis. It is a highly contagious disease, that can easily spread from person to person, if proper hygiene is no maintained.

Causes of Stomach Flu

Intestinal or stomach flu is mainly caused by four types of virus, rotavirus, adenovirus, calicivirus and astrovirus. Out of these, rotavirus is the leading cause of stomach flu, and diarrhea in infants, belonging to the age group of 3 to 15 months. Adenovirus is mainly found to cause viral gastroenteritis in children below the age of 2 years. On the other hand, calicivirus can cause infection in any age group, while astrovirus mainly infect the young children and elderly. So, these four viruses are primarily responsible for causing viral gastroenteritis in human. But, gastroenteritis in general, can be caused by factors other than viruses. Bacterial infection, as well as the intake of certain medications like, antibiotics, non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin are the important factors, that can cause gastroenteritis.

Stomach Flu Symptoms

Usually, its duration is about 24 to 48 hours. The symptoms of viral gastroenteritis can be mild or severe and can appear within 1 to 3 days.

• Watery diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Loss of appetite
• Low-grade fever
• Headache
• General weakness and muscle aches

Diagnosis and Treatment for Stomach Flu

Diagnosis of viral gastroenteritis is usually carried out on the basis of the symptoms and physical examination of the patients. In addition to these, stool sample of the patients is also examined to find out the presence of rotavirus and norovirus, and to rule out the possibility of bacterial and parasitic infection. Presently, there are no specific treatment for viral gastroenteritis. Antibiotics that are used for treating a bacterial infection of the intestine, are ineffective for viral gastroenteritis treatment. However, medications that can relieve these symptoms are available. In case of severe vomiting and nausea, one can take the anti-nausea drug, dramamine. However, this medication is not considered safe during pregnancy.

For diarrhea, antidiarrheal drugs like, kaopectate, Imodium and pepto-bismol can be used, as per your physician's suggestion. Severe and persistent vomiting and diarrhea can result in loss of electrolyte and dehydration. So, be sure to drink plenty of fluid or water to avoid dehydration. In the meantime, it is very important to give your stomach some rest, by not consuming any solid food for a few hours. After a couple of hours, you can resume eating solid foods. Generally, a bland diet that includes, clear liquid, rice, banana, apple and dry toast is usually suggested for this condition. Certain foods like, caffeine, dairy products, alcohol and fatty and greasy foods should be avoided during this period.

If the symptoms of gastroenteritis do not improve within 24 to 48 hours, then consult your physician. If vomiting and diarrhea persist or get worse, and cause severe dehydration, then medical intervention can be required. However, be sure to take any kind of medication, only with the approval of your health care provider. To prevent it in the future, maintain adequate personal hygiene. Even a simple habit like, washing the hands before eating can go a long way in preventing the spread of viral gastroenteritis. Also important is to avoid sharing of food and drinks with the individuals, who already have gastroenteritis. For preventing gastroenteritis, caused by rotavirus, vaccinations are also available.