Stomach flu
Diarrhea is defined as at least 3 liquid stools in 24 hours or an increase of twice the usual stool for an infant. In Quebec, this condition is usually caused by a VIRUS, we will talk about the ” Stomach Flu ”.
Its contamination will be through objects and the famous handshake. Thus, a person with gastroenteritis is contagious as soon as they develop symptoms (diarrhea, fever, intestinal cramps, fatigue) and could contaminate their environment leaving other members of their family, or their colleagues at work at risk of contracting the disease. Moreover, the contagion could last several days AFTER the disappearance of the symptoms!
IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE Stomach flu, stay HOME TO AVOID CONTAGION!
HOW TO TREAT THIS INFECTION ?
I recommend to healthy adults stop eating for 24 hours to keep the intestines at rest and avoid residues. On the other hand, it is very important to be well hydrated with an electrolyte-based solution (GASTROLYTE, PEDIALYTE or HYDRALYTE) because frequent diarrhea causes high risks of dehydration which can cause pressure drops and dizziness. Urinating frequently helps to ensure that you drink enough moisturizing fluid.
You can also troubleshoot with sports solutions (GATORADE or POWERADE), but these do not contain the recommended amounts of electrolytes and should not be given to children. In case of breastfed infants, continue breastfeeding while incorporating an electrolyte solution.
probiotic or not ?
The addition of PROBIOTICS will allow the intestines to recover more quickly. These products provide several “good” bacteria that will colonize the intestinal wall. I suggest that other non-gastrointestinal members of the family take a preventive dose of probiotic to possibly prevent contagion.
When do I need to consult ?
It is not usually necessary to see a doctor during a Stomach Flu. But if you observe the following signs, you will have to consult.
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Diarrhea or fever persists for more than 48 hours.
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You observe dark blood in your stool.
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You no longer urinate what is a sign of dehydration.
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You develop weakness with confusion.
The people most at risk are young children and the elderly.
travelling
It is also possible to develop diarrhea while traveling, but this infection is rather due to a bacterium that causes traveler’s diarrhea.
This type of infection can be prevented. If you are planning a trip, go to the pharmacy for a full consultation without an appointment. The pharmacist can prescribe the treatment you need.
