How to take care of a stomach virus?
Know the symptoms and how to take care of it so it doesn’t get worse.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, nurse or health practitioner, just someone that has had experience with a stomach virus on several occasions, sharing tips that have worked for me, and hope that will work for you.
Most of us been there… the running to the bathroom to throw up, and wondering what caused it. Was it something I ate? What did I drink? Am I pregnant (unless you’re a guy)? Stomach virus are no joke. I had it once or twice and it wasn’t a pleasant experience.
Norovirus (Stomach flu), is not a lot of fun. It’s not the flu, but it is caused by a bacterial virus that attacks your intestine. Some symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping. I think the most painful ones are the vomiting and diarrhea. Imagine not having anything left to vomit and your body forcing you to continue puking. It’s not fun. Then, having stomach cramping and having to run to the bathroom again because of diarrhea. Still not fun. But there’s a solution to help you get past that. Below are three things to do, if you are experiencing stomach virus (flu) symptoms:
ELECTROLYTES – I always think Pedialyte when I think of diarrhea. I don’t have children, but I do have nieces, and I remember Pedialyte helps. So, as a runner and active person, a good adult version of Pedialyte is Gatorade/Powerade or Nuun. Drink sips of Gatorade after a vomiting episode. I say sips, because after throwing up, you will not want to put anything in your system. Somehow the electrolytes helps calm down whatever is forcing your body to react this way. Continue the sipping process, to re hydrate, as you will be very dehydrated from all the Stomach Flu symptoms.
Do Not Roll Around in Bed – If you were rudely awaken in the middle of the night because of the stomach flu and its horrible symptoms. I find a good way for me to calm my stomach from cramping is sleeping on my stomach, which prevents me from moving around too much. Also, side sleeping helps. Some people suggest not sleeping on your stomach, but on your back instead. I find that a bit more uncomfortable, and I’m always concerned that I would vomit, at least if I’m laying on my stomach, the vomit can come out, not drown me, per se. Anyways, do what’s best for you.
Lastly, eat bland foods – I highly recommend Saltines and Lipton Soup Secrets Noodle Soup packets. They are easy to make, not too heavy, and sits well on the stomach, as you slowly get your energy and control back.
On day 2 and 3, slowly introduce other foods to your system, remember BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Apples (apple sauce), and Toast). These are foods that will help you get your system back in order.