Stomach Flu
July 28, 2008
gStomach Flu or gastroenteritis is a problem related to the irritation of stomach and intestines which is generally characterized by diarrhea, fever, headache, dehydration and vomiting. Though it is called “stomach flu”, it is not caused by influenza viruses. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites which can be found in soil and in animals. This problem is caused basically by germs which enter one’s body through one’s mouth. Hence, the best way to combat stomach flu is by preventing it through personal hygiene which involves thorough washing of hands before meals.
The main symptoms of gastroenteritis include watery diarrhea and vomiting along with other symptoms like headache, fever and abdominal cramps. These symptoms begin only 1 to 2 days after the infection has spread in the body and can last for 1 to 10 days depending upon the intensity of the infection. Gastroenteritis is not a serious illness and can be cured in a few days. However, since it involves loss of fluids through diarrhea and vomiting, people whose intake of liquids is less often run the risk of other problems like dehydration. Thus, people with stomach flu should make it a point to include a lot of liquids in their diet to compensate for the fluid loss of the body.
Giving liquids to the affected person is the primary way of treating stomach flu. One should always keep Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) at home to avoid the further complication of dehydration. Other medications like antibiotics are given only after the consultation of doctors. This is a problem which can be prevented through frequent hand washing, disinfecting the household surfaces and by ensuring that one eats only fresh and hygienic food. By ensuring basic hygiene levels, one can prevent the outbreak of stomach flu as it is generally spread through germs and bacteria found in soil or in contaminated food.
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