The stomach flu can be a miserable sickness to endure. You might experience fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and plenty of aches and pains. Since it’s rough to deal with a stomach bug, you need to know how to take care of it.
Get Plenty of Rest
When you’re sick, your body needs to work hard to fight off the infection. It only works harder if you are constantly moving around or trying to get things done. If you want your sickness to pass quickly, you need to give your body plenty of rest. Sleep as much as you can and take it easy throughout the day. While you have a stomach bug, you should be lying or sitting down as much as possible. Take it easy and give your body time to rest.
Drink Fluids
Unfortunately, the stomach flu causes you to lose a lot of fluids due to sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. and you need to be replacing these fluids as much as possible. It may be hard to keep fluids down, so drink small amounts at a time if that helps. There are several liquids you can try drinking. Clear liquids, such as water and broth, are among the best for you to be drinking. You can also drink liquids that boost your electrolytes. Some teas, such as ginger or peppermint, can help calm your stomach while also keeping you hydrated.
Eat Gentle Foods
It’s difficult to keep food down when you have the flu, but once you’re able to eat you should focus on gentle foods. Some people will try what’s called the BRAT diet. This diet includes bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods are easier to digest while also giving your body energy and nutrients. Try avoiding brown rice and whole wheat toast as these have more fiber which may be harder to digest. While there are good foods to eat, you should avoid some foods. Dairy, spicy food, greasy foods, and foods high in fiber. All of these are harder for you to digest. As you begin feeling better, slowly introduce more foods. Just take your time.
Medicate Sparingly
Medication will not help get rid of the stomach bug. It can only be used to treat symptoms. For example, you can take pain relievers for any aches or you can take medication for nausea. Just keep in mind that some medications can further upset your stomach. It’s a good idea to try out some medication to see how it makes you feel before you continue taking it. If you’re concerned, talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medication.
If you feel sick, the best advice is to take it easy. Relax your body, eat simple foods, and take your time working back toward your regular routines. In most cases, a stomach bug will resolve itself after a few days and you simply need to wait it out. There are typically no complications or need for concern. However, if you haven’t been able to keep down fluids for 24 hours, see blood in your vomit or stool, or if you have a fever over 102 degrees, then you should call your doctor.
Visiting urgent care can help you get treatment for medical issues that are not an emergency, such as a stomach bug. Click here to learn more about urgent care at Premier Family Medical.
