Stomach Flu Symptoms
The Earliest And Most Common Stomach Flu Symptoms
Though you may be suffering stomach flu symptoms, it is important to understand that this illness is in no way related to the influenza virus. We call it flu because it is aggressive and wreaks havoc on the entire body, but stomach flu symptoms are triggered by another foreign bacteria altogether. While influenza is a virus and cannot be treated with antibiotics, the stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, can be treated with antibiotics fairly successfully depending on the original culprit. If you are suffering this illness due to lactose intolerance, for instance, you will not find relief from prescription antibiotics. If the cause of your illness happens to be a bacteria, such as those found in some spoiled food items or those contractible through the air, you may be a good candidate for antibiotic treatment.
The most important thing to remember when suffering stomach flu symptoms is that dehydration is the most dangerous thing about your illness. It is almost impossible to prevent some degree of dehydration when the intestines and stomach are working so hard to rid the body of foreign bacteria, and sipping water throughout the day can be agonizing. It is necessary, however, in order to avoid an even more violent bout of vomiting and diarrhea. In the most debilitating cases, hospitalization becomes necessary in order to replenish fluids intravenously, and for children or the elderly this may be the only relief in sight.
Stomach flu symptoms can last for up to ten days, though many come and pass within as little as two days. You will usually begin your horrible bout of illness with an acute headache or pangs of nausea. A decrease in energy is also inevitable, as the bug begins to work your system over from the inside out. You may or may not be stricken with a fever on top of it all, but if you do get one you are likely to have a bit harder time of it all.
Stomach flu symptoms are also measured for severity depending on how long they persist, as those with extended illness are bound to become more and more dehydrated. Dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea becomes worse as less fluid is present in the body tissues, so the longer you are sick the more sick you are likely to become. You will want to rest as much as possible, spending all of your waking time attempting to replenish what has been lost of your nutritional reserves. Plain, room temperature water is best, and should be sipped often in small amounts. The BRAT diet, bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is the least likely to cause irritation to the already irritated, swollen, and sensitive intestines.