Symptoms of Stomach Flu in Adults
Having stomach flu or gastroenteritis as it is commonly referred to as, can be a very discomforting and sometimes painful experience. Although technically stomach flu is basically a term used to describe the symptoms which are basically associated with gastroenteritis. In many adults, gastroenteritis can be caused by a virus, parasite or bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. Painful inflammation and swelling can occur in the stomach and intestines causing diarrhea and severe nausea. Most adults have suffered from gastroenteritis at one time or another as it is a very common illness. It is important to be able to distinguish the difference between just a regular digestive issue and gastroenteritis in adults. Below are symptoms to help identify if you are suffering from stomach flu (gastroenteritis).
Instructions
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1
Watery Diarrhea:
If you have excessive watery diarrhea then there is a good chance that you might be suffering from gastroenteritis. It is important to stay hydrated as the loss of water can lead to dehydration especially in children. The excessive diarrhea can be a source of discomfort from anyone with gastroenteritis. -
2
Aches and Pains in both Head and Body:
Having pain or aches in your head and body is a symptom of having gastroenteritis. Often the pain can be quite discomforting especially if you are already suffering from diarrhea as well. -
3
Cramps in the Abdomen:
Intestinal cramps can be very painful and are also an indication that you could have gastroenteritis. Excessive cramps in adults due to gastroenteritis and can cause irritation and irritability. -
4
Feeling Cold or Having a Fever:
If you find yourself feeling cold or having the chills combined with some of the above mentioned symptoms like diarrhea or cramps, then you could be suffering from gastroenteritis. Having the chills is also a clear indication of having a fever. This caused by the body’s immune system trying to fight off the bacteria, virus or parasite which is attacking your gastrointestinal tract. -
5
Excessive Vomiting:
Excessive vomiting which lasts for more than 48 hours is usually a clear indication that you could have gastroenteritis. The inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract which includes the stomach often gets irritated and causes excessive vomiting. Also, it is important to note that frequent vomiting can also indicate gastroenteritis. -
6
Feeling Ill:
The general sense of feeling ill combined with the above mentioned symptoms like cramps, diarrhea and fever are a good way of identifying whether or not you have gastroenteritis. If you feel unwell and have some body aches it could mean that your gastrointestinal tract is irritated and swollen.