Viral gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as stomach flu, isn't the same as influenza, also known as the flu. The flu affects the respiratory system. Gastroenteritis is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract, specifically the intestines.
By any name, though, the stomach flu is no fun, with symptoms including watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting.
At Bethel Family Medicine, our team of experienced health care providers, under the direction of Dr. Douglas R. Grogan and Dr. Jennifer Hall DiFalco, treats many cases of stomach flu, which can occur any time of year but is most common from November to April.
In this blog, they explain when the stomach flu warrants a trip to our office.
For healthy adults, the stomach flu is typically a brief and minor inconvenience. However, you should contact us if you experience any of the following:
If you can't keep liquids down for 24 hours, you're at risk of dehydration.
Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than two days requires evaluation.
Vomiting blood, having bloody bowel movements, or experiencing severe stomach pain are all reasons to seek immediate medical care.
A fever above 104°F (40°C) indicates that your body is fighting a significant infection.
These include excessive thirst, a dry mouth, dark yellow or scant urine, and severe weakness or dizziness.
Children, and especially infants, can become dehydrated much more quickly than adults, making it crucial to monitor their symptoms closely. Call our office if your child:
A temperature of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher is a cause for concern.
If your child seems unusually tired or irritable, or is in a lot of pain, it’s time to see a doctor.
That can be a sign of a more severe infection.
Look for signs such as a dry mouth, crying without tears, or not having wet diapers for six hours or more. In infants, a sunken soft spot on the head is a significant red flag.
While spitting up can be normal for babies, frequent vomiting isn’t.
Most cases of the stomach flu can be managed at home with rest and plenty of fluids. However, if you or a family member experiences severe symptoms of viral gastroenteritis, don't hesitate to contact us.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call our office in Brockton, Massachusetts, today.
