Are your muscles aching and you’re running
up a fever? Feel like throwing up and have stomach cramps? You may have the flu…or
maybe it’s the stomach flu. Still can’t tell? These two illnesses are commonly
confused with each other and it’s important to find out which is which to get
the right treatment. Read on to find out the difference between the two.
The Difference between Flu and Stomach Flu
Influenza, or most commonly referred to as
the flu, is a viral infection that is similar to the common cold, but is
considered worse. There are only a handful of viruses that cause the flu which
is why vaccines have been made available to prevent people from catching them.
Severe cases of the flu can also lead to worse illnesses like pneumonia which
can be life threatening if left untreated.
The stomach flu, on the other hand,
has nothing to do with influenza or the viruses that cause them. The correct
medical term for this condition is gastroenteritis. It refers to the irritation
or inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract caused by a bacteria, virus or
parasites found in food that hasn’t been cleaned or cooked properly, or in
unclean water. Lactose intolerance or the inability of the body to process
dairy products can also cause gastroenteritis to occur.
Influenza and Gastroenteritis: Symptoms and Treatment
The symptoms of the flu can feel
like coming down with a bad cold; but other symptoms can, and will soon pop up.
A feeling of fatigue and severe muscle ache followed by a high fever is not
uncommon in cases of the flu. With the flu being a viral infection, taking lots
of fluids and bed rest can do the trick, but in severe cases anti-viral
medication may be administered to reduce the severity of the symptoms
especially in people who are at risk of developing complications.
Gastroenteritis symptoms may differ
depending on what caused it. The common symptoms that occur in cases of the
stomach flu include, but are not limited to, stomach pain and cramps, nausea
and vomiting, fever, headache, and in some cases, swollen lymph nodes.
Dehydration happens in severe cases of gastroenteritis. Treatment for
gastroenteritis depends on what caused it, but the best thing to do is to stay
hydrated. Studies show that the anti-inflammatory properties of fish
oil
and flaxseed oil can help, but one should consult a doctor first before trying
out any home remedies. If one is unable to take in fluids or retain them due to
vomiting or diarrhea, it’s time to seek medical attention for emergency
treatment.
Although most cases of influenza and
gastroenteritis can be managed by bed rest, lots of fluids, and home remedies,
there are cases wherein immediate medical attention is needed. When symptoms
persist for a longer period of time than what is usual, it’s not a good idea to
wait it out. Go to the emergency room immediately to get the necessary medical
attention.
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