When it comes to gastroenteritis, or what’s commonly called the stomach flu, you want it gone as soon as possible. These tips can help you beat the stomach flu and avoid sharing it with others in your household.
And keep in mind that if you need care fast, AdventHealth Centra Care is here to help soothe your symptoms — no appointment required.
How Do You Know It’s the Stomach Flu?
Various viruses, bacteria or parasites can cause gastroenteritis, and its symptoms can seem similar to other gastrointestinal illnesses. If you suspect you have the stomach flu, check for the following symptoms:
- Abdominal Pain: Cramping or discomfort in the abdominal area is common
- Diarrhea: Watery or loose stools are common
- Fatigue: Gastrointestinal infections can be exhausting, leading to feelings of tiredness and weakness
- Fever: A fever may accompany viral or bacterial infections
- Headache: Some people with gastroenteritis experience headaches, possibly due to dehydration or your body’s immune response
- Muscle Aches: Generalized muscle aches and weakness can occur
- Nausea: Feeling queasy or the urge to vomit is a common symptom of the stomach flu
- Vomiting: Gastroenteritis often involves episodes of vomiting, which can help the body expel harmful pathogens
It’s important to note that other illnesses, such as food poisoning or other infections, can also cause these symptoms. Your health care provider can help you navigate your symptoms and determine whether you’re dealing with the stomach flu.
7 Stomach Flu Tips to Get You Through
Once you’ve confirmed you have the stomach flu, it’s time to focus on treatment and managing your symptoms. If you or a family member gets sick, take these steps:
- Avoid preparing food or caring for others when you’re sick
- Get plenty of rest to help you recuperate
- Keep hydrated. It’s easy to get dehydrated when you have the flu
- Keep sick family members at home and away from others, with a separate restroom, if possible
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect any surfaces where people have gotten sick
- Wash soiled clothing or sheets right away with the hot settings on your washer and dryer
- Wash your hands often
How to Safeguard Your Stomach Against the Stomach Flu
There are easy ways you can help protect your family from stomach viruses every day, including:
- Avoiding sharing food, drinks or utensils
- Keeping common areas disinfected, such as doorknobs and handrails
- Rinsing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating
One of the best defenses against illness is washing your hands regularly, especially before eating. Hand sanitizer is good on the go, but soap and water are most effective at keeping your hands germ-free.
Centra Care Will Help You Beat the Stomach Flu
While other urgent care centers have long wait times and accept limited insurance providers, at AdventHealth Centra Care, we aim to make everything run smoothly. You can count on minimal wait times and timely results to help you get back on your feet sooner. To learn more about our stomach flu treatment options, make a reservation and visit one of our AdventHealth Centra Care locations.
