Nobody likes to get sick, but when we aren’t feeling our best, we do like to have all of the answers and have access to care when we need it. At The Ready Care Clinic, we often receive questions like, “What is the stomach flu?” and “Do I need a doctor?” starting in the fall every year.

The flu is an upper respiratory illness most commonly affecting the lungs, nose, and throat and passed in the fall and winter months and caused by the Influenza virus. On the other hand, the stomach virus is a gastrointestinal disease that may be caused by the norovirus or coming into contact with an infected person or ingesting contaminated food or water.

The stomach virus is a very different disease than influenza. It often spreads quickly and widely during the school year in central Kentucky.

What are the symptoms of the stomach virus or viral gastroenteritis?

Symptoms of Influenza

• Fever or feeling warm
• Chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue

Symptoms of Viral Gastroenteritis

• Fevers or chills
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Aches and pains
• Sweating or clammy skin
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Loss of appetite

Oftentimes, the stomach virus goes away on its own without the need of medical intervention. Healthy adults can fight the virus by washing their hands frequently, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking the time to get lots of rest. For those stomach symptoms, a light and bland diet is helpful—avoid rich or spicy foods.

When should you go to the doctor with the stomach virus?

While the stomach virus typically goes away within a few days. However, for the young, old, or people with underlying conditions, the stomach virus can cause complications like severe dehydration. You should see a medical professional if you or your child:

• Can’t keep any liquids down
• Have severe abdominal pain
• Have blood in your vomit or stool
• Have a high fever that won’t go away
• Show confusion, severe fatigue, or other signs of dehydration

Dehydration is very serious and can happen quickly in severe cases or with the very young or elderly. Seek medical attention immediately if you or your loved one feels confused, dizzy or lightheaded, have a dry mouth and throat, or ongoing fatigue, confusion, or high heart rate.

If at any time you aren’t sure if your stomach virus needs a professional opinion, your best bet is to reach out to our team at The Ready Care Clinic. Even if you’re not experiencing a life-threatening situation, there are ways we can help with nausea and discomfort for prolonged stomach virus symptoms. For little ones who can’t speak up for themselves about how they’re feeling, having a medical professional check them out can offer you peace of mind.

How to avoid the stomach virus

Norovirus, the virus responsible for the stomach virus, is highly contagious. To lessen your or your kids’ chances of getting sick, stick to the following guidelines:

• Wash your hands often, especially before and after preparing food, after using the restroom, before and after handling medication for you or someone else, after returning from public places, etc.
• Teach your kids how to wash their hands properly
• Sanitize high-traffic surfaces in your home, like door knobs, countertops, etc.
• Stay home from work if you’re feeling unwell
• Keep sick children home from school

Contact the Ready Care Clinic for Flu Care

If you’re looking for quick and easy same-day healthcare near Harrodsburg, Lawrenceburg, and Crab Orchard, Kentucky, our team of experienced medical professionals at The Ready Care Clinic are available to provide you with the utmost in rapid immediate care.

Our clinics are designed to provide professional, thorough care in a quick and comfortable setting. Contact us online or visit one of our three locations to learn about how we can help you.