Also referred to as the gastric flu or stomach flu.

Also called the tummy bug

Occurs following an inflammation or irritation to the gastrointestinal tract .

Can involve both the stomach and small intestines .

The result is diarrhea

Symptoms:

     -     Nausea
     -     Vomiting
     -     Diarrhea
     -     Stomach pain
     -     Stomach cramping
     -     Decreased of loss of appetite
     -     Blood in stools
     -     Fatigue
     -     Young children may have loss of weight, racing heartbeat, skin color changes and shock symptoms

Causes:

1.)   Viruses
2.)   Toxins
3.)   Bacteria
4.)   Parasites
5.)   other causes

Virus are the most common cause

Types of viruses:

  -     Norovirus  -  50% of cases
  -     Rotavirus  -  20% of cases – often seen in children
  -     Adenovirus
  -     Astrovirus
  -     other

Types of bacteria

  -     Escherichia coli
  -     Clostridium
  -     Staphylococcus
  -     Salmonella
  -     Shigella
  -     others

Risk factors:

     -     uncooked foods
     -     contaminated water
     -     other sick family members, friends, or people who you have contact with

Stool cultures may be required

Treatment:

Fluids

If breastfeeding – continue and don’t stop

If formula feeding – continue and also rehydrate as needed

BRAT diet + others
   -  Bananas
   -  Rice
   -  Applesause
   -  Toast
   -  along with additional nutritional valued foods such as soups,
fluids, and other bland foods
   -  Yougurt as well

Zinc for children for 2 weeks following episode.

Antibiotics when necessary
.           Fluoroquinolones
.          Metronidazole
.          Vancomycin

Loperamide for diarrhea
Bismuth Subsalicylate

Ondansetron for nausea

*** When severe or concerning – visiting with a medical provider may be essential and in
some cases a visit to the hospital may be appropriate.