The experience is unpleasant but familiar: a sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhea that is often accompanied by a stomachache. We blame something we ate or overindulgence or we call it stomach flu. Although almost everyone claims to have experienced the stomach flu or intestinal influenza, doctors know that stomach flu is a myth. Influenza or flu is a viral disease that affects the respiratory system. Symptoms of flu include high fever, head and body aches, and cough. What most term stomach flu is actually a viral infection of the digestive system called gastroenteritis.

What Is Gastrenteritis?

Gastroenteritis is a viral infection that affects the digestive system. It can be mild or it can be severe. The most common symptoms include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, and stomachache or abdominal discomfort. The virus that causes gastroenteritis can be spread in water, in food, or from person to person. Someone who fails to wash their hands thoroughly after a bowel movement or prepares food without washing hands first can spread personal contact. In some cases, gastroenteritis can occur after someone eats spoiled foods – mayonnaise left out of the refrigerator or cooked food that is not stored properly.

Is A Doctor Necessary?

Most people suffering from gastroenteritis don’t require a doctor to diagnose the illness but in some cases, a visit to the doctor may be needed. If the illness doesn’t run its course in 48 hours or less, then a doctor is necessary. The same applies when symptoms are acute. In adult healthy individuals, gastroenteritis is unpleasant but not life threatening. For children, adults with other health conditions, and the elderly, gastroenteritis can cause major problems. The biggest threat is dehydration. Frequent vomiting and diarrhea can lead to a loss of electrolytes. Imbalance in electrolytes can cause severe dehydration and immediate medical intervention is required.

Rest, fluids, and abstaining from solid foods for a few days are the best treatment for gastroenteritis. Although it’s not stomach flu, it is an unpleasant illness.