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Volume 8 Issue 2

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Page 22 | Abby's Magazine - www.AbbysMag.com Stomach problems may occur every now and then and they will eventually pass. But what happens when a virus enters your digestive system and causes a host of uncomfortable symptoms that last for several days? What you're currently experiencing is what is commonly called a stomach flu, or gastroenteritis. What Is a Stomach Virus? A stomach virus (or stomach flu) is a condition that causes the stomach and intestines to become inflamed, resulting in a variety of uncomfortable, digestive-related symptoms. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, there are many types of viruses that can cause this condition, chiefly: • Norovirus — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that norovirus is very contagious and can spread via a number of ways, such as through contaminated food, water or surfaces. It is also considered the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis. • Rotavirus — The rotavirus belongs to the Reoviridae family of viruses, and is identified by its double-stranded RNA enclosed by a double-shelled outer layer. As with other viruses, it is very contagious and causes severe diarrhea among infants and children. • Astrovirus — Astrovirus strains are single-stranded, positive-sense and non-enveloped RNA viruses belonging to the Mamastrovirus family. The virus is contagious among children and the elderly, but adults are more resistant to it. These viruses are commonly acquired through ingestion of contaminated food or water. In some cases, infected utensils, towels or other items can spread the disease. Telltale Symptoms of a Stomach Virus When a virus begins to affect your digestive system, you may develop various symptoms, such as: • Watery stools • Abdominal cramps and pain • Nausea • Vomiting • Muscle aches or headache • Low-grade fever Depending on the type of virus that enters your stomach, the symptoms may manifest in one to three days with varying intensities, ranging from mild to severe. If you experience these symptoms right away, visit a doctor first for a proper diagnosis. You may confuse your condition with other diseases, such as bacterial diarrhea caused by salmonella or E. coli, which will require a different treatment. What To Do While Managing a Stomach Virus While a stomach virus may take away your appetite, you will still need to eat and drink healthy food to help lower the chances of worsening symptoms. But don't just consume any food you can get your hands on. You will need to follow a strict procedure to help manage your condition: 1. Stop eating for a few hours — Allow your stomach to settle so you can begin to prepare yourself consuming food and water again. 2. Slowly begin drinking fluids — Once you feel better, drink small sips of water over the course of a few hours. Not drinking enough fluids can lead to dehydration, which can make you feel worse in the long run. However, don't drink too much water at once, as it can exacerbate nausea and vomiting. 3. Note your urination — Ideally, your urine should be light and clear. This signifies that you are properly hydrated. Dark-colored urine means that you're lacking fluids. Continue drinking water until you achieve the ideal color. 4. Eat bland foods first — Foods that are bland and easy to digest, such as bananas and chicken, can help replenish lost nutrients caused by diarrhea. Bananas are generally recommended during a bout of stomach flu because the fiber can help increase the bulk in stool, but apples are also a viable alternative. As your health begins to improve, other healthy foods that you can slowly ease yourself into other foods such as eggs, fresh fruits (in moderation) and vegetables. If your stomach can tolerate it, drinking ginger tea may help with your symptoms. It contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help ease nausea, vomiting and pain in your stomach. To make the tea: What Should You Eat When You Have a Stomach Virus?

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