“Stomach flu,” medically known as viral gastroenteritis, refers to an inflammation of the digestive tract. A fever is frequently among its symptoms, indicating the body’s response to the infection.
Understanding Fever and Stomach Flu
Viral gastroenteritis is typically caused by viruses, with norovirus being the most common cause in adults and rotavirus a leading cause in children. Other viruses like adenovirus and astrovirus can also lead to this condition. Less commonly, bacteria or parasites may be responsible for gastroenteritis. The infection usually spreads through contact with an infected person or by consuming contaminated food or water.
When the body encounters these pathogens, the immune system initiates an inflammatory response. A fever is a physiological reaction to this infection, where the body raises its core temperature to create an unfavorable environment for invading viruses or bacteria. This elevated temperature is part of the immune system’s effort to fight off the illness.
Fever often appears alongside other symptoms of gastroenteritis. These can include nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Individuals might also experience chills, fatigue, body aches, and headaches. It is important to note that “stomach flu” is distinct from influenza, which is a respiratory illness affecting the nose, throat, and lungs.
Managing Symptoms at Home
Managing symptoms of stomach flu at home focuses on preventing dehydration and supporting recovery. Staying well-hydrated is crucial, as vomiting and diarrhea can lead to significant fluid loss. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), over-the-counter, are particularly effective because they contain a balanced mix of water, electrolytes, and sugars. Water, clear broths, and diluted fruit juices are also suitable options.
Consume fluids in small, frequent sips to avoid overwhelming the stomach, especially after vomiting. Rest is important for recovery. Introducing easily digestible foods gradually can help replenish nutrients. The BRAT diet, consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is often recommended for its blandness.
Other gentle food choices include plain boiled starches, lean proteins, and clear soups. Foods that are high in fat, sugar, or spice should be avoided as they can irritate the digestive system. For fever and body aches, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort, though their use should follow package instructions and be appropriate for age.
Knowing When to Seek Medical Care
While most cases of stomach flu resolve on their own, certain signs indicate a need for medical attention, especially for dehydration and persistent fever. Signs of severe dehydration include:
Decreased urination (or no wet diapers for infants)
Dry mouth
Absence of tears when crying
Unusual lethargy or irritability
Sunken eyes
Extreme thirst
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Rapid heartbeat
Skin that remains tented when pinched
For adults, a fever above 102°F (39°C) persisting for several days warrants medical consultation. In infants and young children, any fever should prompt a call to a healthcare provider. Additional warning signs include severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, or vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down for 24 hours.
Medical advice should be sought if symptoms do not improve after a few days or if they worsen. Certain populations are more susceptible to complications and should seek care sooner. These include infants, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems or existing chronic health conditions.