Stomach flu
The inside of the stomach and intestinal tract are lined with mucous membrane. In the case of stomach flu, also called a gastrointestinal infection, this mucous membrane is inflamed.
The term stomach flu is confusing, because unlike a real flu , stomach flu can also be caused by bacteria and you almost never have a high fever or sore throat. At most, you may feel a little flu-like, often resulting in nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
What is the cause?
A virus, bacteria or parasite can be the cause.
Stomach flu viruses are found in the stool or vomit of infected people and are passed on through:
- the hands (contaminated door handles, contaminated food or toilet);
- saliva droplets or even the air;
- polluted water.
What can you do yourself?
- Drink plenty of water (water, tea or broth):
- yes : a small amount regularly;
- not : a large amount at once.
- Are you feeling better? Try eating small amounts again.
- A baby should drink at least half of what he normally drinks. Babies are best continued with breast milk or normal undiluted bottle feeding.
- Provide extra breastfeeding or extra fluid (for example water or rice water) as much as the baby wants.
- Fruit porridges, vegetable porridges and bread are also possible if the baby feels like it.
- Check whether your baby is urinating enough. A diaper should not remain dry for more than eight to twelve hours.
The elderly and children are at increased risk of dehydration. So they definitely need to drink extra. In addition to water, tea and broth, cola, fruit juice, soup, rice water and yoghurt drinks are also suitable.
We do not recommend apple juice for younger children because it irritates the intestines and can prolong diarrhea.
When should you see a doctor?
Consult your doctor if:
- you are drowsy or confused;
- you can no longer drink;
- you cannot urinate for more than a day;
- you have constant stomach pain;
- the diarrhea lasts for more than three days;
- there is blood or mucus in the stool.
Be sure to contact a doctor if your child:
- cries continuously;
- has both vomiting and diarrhea;
- has a fever;
- hasn't urinated for half a day.
Be vigilant for the symptoms of dehydration in children under two.
Contact a doctor if people over 70 have diarrhea and symptoms of dehydration.
Drinking enough water is the most important thing for vomiting and diarrhea.
Elise Rummens
Elise Rummens | prevention doctor CM
Elise is our family doctor. Her pet subject when it comes to health is exercise. That's why you see her jumping, flying, diving, falling and getting up again on Tuesday evenings. Then she has her weekly parkour training.
Drinking enough water is the most important thing for vomiting and diarrhea.
Elise Rummens
