Viral gastroenteritis or ‘stomach flu’ is a viral infection that affects your stomach and intestines, leading to inflammation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

It is caused by various viruses, including norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus, and astrovirus. The virus is highly contagious and spreads through contaminated food, water, or surfaces, or by close contact with an infected person.

While the infection can be severe in some cases, it usually resolves within a few days or weeks, and treatment focuses on managing the symptoms.

Symptoms of Viral Gastroenteritis

The symptoms of viral gastroenteritis typically start within 24 to 48 hours of exposure to the virus, and can last from a few days to two weeks. Common symptoms include:.

Diarrhea (often watery and frequent)
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal cramps and pain
Fever and chills
Headache
Muscle aches

Managing the Symptoms of Viral Gastroenteritis

While there is no specific treatment for viral gastroenteritis, there are several things you can do to manage the symptoms and aid recovery:.

1. Stay Hydrated

One of the main concerns with viral gastroenteritis is dehydration, which can occur due to the loss of fluids through vomiting and diarrhea. It is essential to drink plenty of fluids to replace the lost fluids and electrolytes.

Drinking water, clear broths, and sports drinks (to replace lost electrolytes) is recommended. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks, which can worsen dehydration.

2. Take Over-the-Counter Medications

You can take over-the-counter medications to relieve some of the symptoms of viral gastroenteritis. Antidiarrheal medications, such as loperamide (Imodium), can help reduce diarrhea.

However, these medications are not recommended for use in children and should be used with caution in adults. Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin), can help relieve fever and body aches. Avoid aspirin, which can irritate the stomach and worsen vomiting.

3. Rest

Getting enough rest is essential for your body to fight off the infection. Try to get plenty of sleep and avoid strenuous activities. Resting your digestive system by eating simple foods, such as crackers, toast, or bananas, can also help ease symptoms.

4. Practice Good Hygiene

Since viral gastroenteritis is highly contagious, it is important to take steps to prevent the spread of the virus.

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food. Avoid sharing utensils, towels, and personal items with others. Stay home from school or work until the symptoms have resolved.

When to Seek Medical Help

Most cases of viral gastroenteritis can be managed at home without medical intervention. However, some symptoms may require medical attention, including:.