Stomach Bug Symptoms and Treatment

by POPSUGAR Fitness 33

When I recently asked which is worst: pink eye, stomach bug, or the flu, over half of you voted that a stomach bug is the absolute worst. And I must agree. This awful illness is responsible for all the worst symptoms: nausea accompanied by vomiting, abdominal cramps, the runs, headaches, and a fever. Ugh, I feel sick just thinking about it.

Although the actual getting sick in the bathroom part usually only lasts a day, but sometimes up to three, when you have a stomach virus you can end up feeling tired, achy, and with tummy troubles for up to 10 days after. A stomach bug really wrecks a person, and I know the last time I had one, it took me almost a week until I could go back to eating my normal diet. If you're unlucky enough to contract a stomach bug, you'll want to know how to feel better as soon as possible so read more.

I hate to say it, but the best thing you can do is let nature take its course and let your body do what it needs to do. You probably won't feel much like eating, so stick to clear fluids such as ginger ale, ginger tea, water, and ice chips. If you do feel like munching a little, stick to bland foods such as bread, crackers, broth, or white rice. Avoid dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol, since they'll just aggravate your tummy. Rest as much as you can (between visits to the bathroom), and if you're really feeling awful, taking some Pepto Bismol, Tums, or other over-the-counter stomach-easing remedies may help.

What you do need to watch out for is dehydration caused by losing too much fluid. Not only will this make you feel worse with symptoms including dizziness, dry mouth, and fatigue, but it could also lead to seizures or permanent brain damage if left untreated. So be sure to drink those clear fluids often. Sip small amounts, so they're more likely to stay down. And just keep in mind that with time, you'll be back to your old self.

Once you experience a stomach virus, you want to do everything in your power to prevent it from happening again. Since it's highly contagious, wash your hands often, especially when you're touching public items such as door handles and elevator buttons. Also, keeping up with your healthy diet and regular exercise routine will strengthen your immune system, so if you come in contact with a bug, your body can fight it off.

Tell me, what makes you feel better when you have a stomach bug?