Stomach viruses more commonly known as stomach flu, are common infections caused by a variety of factors. Not really considered a flu but more of a “gastroenteritis” a term that can describe several stomach and digestion issues. Factors of a “stomach flu” like vomiting and diarrhea fit into the term’s category.
Causes of Stomach Viruses
A great number of things can cause gastroenteritis, most of them due to improper hygiene and cleanliness. Foods that contain bacteria such as E. coli have been known to cause stomach viruses if they are not properly disposed of in cooking of meats and other edibles.
This can be spread person to person through direct contact with someone containing the bacteria. Several viruses exist through common places that can be taken in the process of regular life routine. Doorknobs and walls are common places for these viruses to thrive and wait to pounce on their next victims. Heavy metals such as lead in drinking water and seafood have also been linked to stomach viruses.
Is it Contagious?
Stomach viruses are very contagious and find easier admiral through sharing of food or otherwise personal items. A virus stemming from gastroenteritis is Norovirus, the most commonly passed virus that can be active up until two weeks after a person is treated. This virus can pass easily and quickly finding its home in common traveled places.
To counter the risk of stomach viruses, hand washing and germ extermination products like germ-x or other hand sanitizers can hinder the formation of stomach viruses. Generally keeping everything sanitized and controlled and not engaging in consumption of undercooked foods usually keep risk of gastroenteritis at a low rate.
Treatment Options
While the stomach virus can be annoying and a nasty infection, very rarely do complications emerge from treatment. If symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea are experienced, then it’s likely stemming from having a stomach virus. More severe symptoms like blood vomiting and extreme fevers may occur as evidence of having gastroenteritis.
While some symptoms (nausea, vomiting, etc.) are minor and treatable over natural action, severe dehydration, food poisoning and blood upheaval should be monitored and enacted upon with visit to a hospital or emergency room. Other symptoms such as minimal urine production, lack of tears, and other clear signs of dehydration should be recognized.
A person who is diagnosed with the virus should sleep often, drink plenty of fluids especially water, and should consume foods like soup or crackers if they can be held down. After the virus has passed through its course, a diet should be maintained by a gradual change from the diet held when sick. If the virus has failed to disperse after a couple of weeks, or the symptoms have expanded, medical help should be contacted immediately.
