Stomach Flu Duration: How Long does Stomach Flu Last

Across the world, viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is a leading cause of death among infants and children under 5. Inadequate treatment of viral gastroenteritis kills 5 to 8 million people every year. Viral gastroenteritis refers to a condition where the stomach, small and large intestines are inflamed.

What are the causes of stomach flu?

Viral gastroenteritis is an infection caused by a variety of viruses including sapoviruses, rotaviruses, adenoviruses, astroviruses, type 40 or 41, and noroviruses. Contrary to popular belief, viral gastroenteritis is not caused by parasites (such as Giardia) or bacteria (such as Salmonella or Escherichia coli). Reactions to certain medications or other medical conditions, may also result in similar symptoms. Only a medical practitioner can pin point the cause of these symptoms, and determine whether the diarrhea is caused by a virus.

How does stomach flu spread?

Viral gastroenteritis is a contagious illness that is spread through contact with an infected person. Sharing of food, water or eating utensils with a person ill with viral gastroenteritis is one way to get it. Consuming contaminated foods or beverages is another way. Food is contaminated when the people preparing or handling the food do not practice good hygiene. Uncooked seafood, such as shellfish can be another source of the illness, if it is contaminated by sewage. A person who eats raw or undercooked shellfish which has been harvested from contaminated waters may get diarrhea. If drinking water is contaminated by sewage, it can lead to a large scale outbreak of viral gastroenteritis.

What are the symptoms of stomach flu ?

The main symptoms of viral gastroenteritis are stomach pain (abdominal cramps), frequent loose watery stools (diarrhea) and vomiting. In many cases it is accompanied by headache and fever. Usually, the symptoms are felt a day or two after a viral gastroenteritis causing virus attacks the body. Depending on the severity of the attack, a person may experience the symptoms from 1 to 10 days.

What is the course of treatment for stomach flu?

Before treatment, the illness has to be identified. Doctors can confirm the diagnosis on the basis of the symptoms and medical examination. Laboratory tests, such as a stool test, are usually carried out. While treating a patient suffering from viral gastroenteritis, the most important condition to be addressed is dehydration. After a period of diarrhea and vomiting, the patient loses a lot of fluids. Thus, the goal of treatment is to replace the lost fluids and electrolytes (salt and minerals), preferably through the consumption of oral rehydration solution (ORS). It is available at most pharmacies and is very simple to prepare. All one needs to do, is mix the powder with a certain quantity of clean or boiled water, and it is reading for drinking. ORS should be consumed right from the onset of the illness. If a person has lost a lot of fluids, and is unable to consume any due to nausea, he/she may be given intravenous (directly into a vein) fluids. Further medication and treatment will be recommended by your doctor if required.

How dangerous is stomach flu?

Stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis) does not pose any real danger. Most people recover and never face any long term repercussions. It can however, be very serious and even fatal, if proper replenishment of fluids is not carried out.

Can stomach flu be prevented?

The primary way to avoid this illness is by practicing good hygiene, which includes frequent washing of hands. Additionally, only consume clean water and food that has been hygienically prepared. Avoid foods or beverages you are unsure of. There is a licensed rotavirus vaccine available that protects against severe diarrhea from rotavirus.

While stomach flu is not a serious illness, it must not be taken lightly. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these symptoms, contact a medical practitioner immediately and remember to consume plenty of fluids.