Gastroenteritis
Incidentally, the stomach flu has no relation to the influenza virus. Still, other viruses and bacteria may cause our stomachs to turn into knots and lead to vomiting and/or diarrhea. When this occurs, it is called acute gastroenteritis. As the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) notes, “Infectious etiologies typically result in an acute onset of symptoms [and] viral gastroenteritis is particularly common.”
So, what does the workup of nausea look like? AAFP describes a stepwise approach. “First, attempt to recognize and correct any consequences of the symptoms, such as dehydration or electrolyte abnormalities. Second, try to identify the underlying cause and provide specific therapies.” It is particularly important to keep track of how symptoms began, where pain is located, and the timing of the discomfort. Things like gastroenteritis tend to begin quickly and without a characteristic pattern. Additionally, symptoms like diarrhea, muscle aches, fatigue and known sick-contacts all point to gastroenteritis.
Typically, gastroenteritis is caused by a viral infection. Thus, antibiotics have a very limited role in treatment. Even among bacterial causes, symptoms tend to be the result of toxin release as bacteria are killed by the immune system. So, antibiotics wouldn’t do any good. Instead, good hydration and symptom control with anti-nausea medications can hold you over until symptoms resolve.
