The “stomach bug” is an infection of the stomach caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite.  The infection can also occur in the intestines (or gut).  To make it easier, we will just call the infection a “stomach bug”! 

 

Note: If you didn’t get a chance to read my first nausea and vomiting article, definitely check it out! 

 

Viruses are the most common cause of the “stomach bug” and are easy to get from being around other people that are infected.  Infections caused by bacteria may not be as common as viral infections, but they are not as rare as the infections due to a parasite.  The bacteria usually come from eating spoiled foods and drinking bad water.

 

Note: The flu is not the same thing as a “stomach bug” – it is a different kind of viral infection and does not usually cause nausea and vomiting.

 

The reason the nausea and vomiting topic has come up is because I find it hard to help patients with these symptoms – they make you feel yucky, but there is just not much that can stop the madness.

 

Medications made to kill viruses will not be prescribed by your doctor, and very rarely will antibiotics be given for “stomach bugs” caused by bacteria.  You just have to ride it out with lots of rest!

 

Nausea and vomiting caused by the “stomach bug” is not a serious problem in healthy adults.  However, it can be life-threatening for people that are very ill or weak, very young, and very old – these folks are more likely to lose too much water which can lead to death. 

 

People of all ages that have been vomiting should drink plenty of liquids.  Water is fine, but what is even better is a product called Pedialyte because it gives you back the water plus the nutrients you have lost.  You should drink as much as you can, even if you have to take a lot of small sips.

 

As your nausea and vomiting start to go away (this should happen between 24 to 48 hours), eat what you think your stomach can handle – foods like cereal, gelatin, rice, applesauce, bananas, toast, and crackers may be some good choices.

 

So, get lots of sleep, drink those liquids, and eat what you can!  If you think you need to take an OTC medication to help you feel better (and haven’t reached the point of needing to pay your doctor a visit), please read my “Nausea and Vomiting, it’s the Pits” and “What to Do about Nausea and Vomiting Caused by a Stomach Bug” articles to see what you can do. 

 

Also, please send me an e-mail at Cate@getpharmacyadvice.com or leave a comment on my articles – I’d love to hear from you!