Viral gastroenteritis can affect one person or group of people who have consumed the same type of food or drinking water contaminated with the virus. Stomach flu is a major cause of severe diarrhea in both adults and children.
The symptoms of stomach flu occurring in 4 to 48 hours after viral infection.
The most common complaints are:
stomach pain;
diarrhea;
nausea and vomiting;
fever;
muscle and joint pain.
One of the serious complications of stomach flu is the development of dehydration. Your body needs fluids to function normally. Dehydration can be caused by vomiting, abnormal urination or sweating hard. In viral gastroenteritis combination of diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration.
Signs of dehydration are:
excessive thirst;
dry mucous membranes;
decreased urine output, which is highly concentrated;
extreme fatigue.
The goal of treatment for stomach flu is to prevent the development of dehydration by submitting enough fluid to cover losses. Fluids and minerals that are lost through diarrhea and vomiting should be restored by infusions of appropriate solutions or fluid intake by mouth.
The first few days after an illness of viral gastroenteritis intake should be limited to avoid heavy and difficult to digest foods that can worsen the condition of patients. After a gradual recovery can begin gradually to supply normal diet. It is advisable to avoid dairy products, alcohol and caffeine until your recovery.
Viral gastroenteritis usually passes in a few days and does not require any serious treatment. Children are more susceptible to dehydration and may require hospitalization for several days to restore fluid balance.
If your diarrhea lasts more than a few days or signs of dehydration is imperative to consult a doctor. You should consult a doctor and some of the following symptoms:
bloody diarrhea
confusion and dizziness
lack of urination for more than 8 hours.
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