Signs & Symptoms of Stomach Flu Illness

Viral gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as the stomach flu, is a viral infection in the intestines. It's highly contagious and is transmitted from human to human contact. According to the Mayo Clinic, the elderly, and individuals with a suppressed immune system can die from viral gastroenteritis.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis may include abdominal cramps, abdominal pain, nausea and or vomiting, occasional muscle ache, headache, low-grade fever and watery diarrhea. In rare cases, some individuals may experience bloody stool or diarrhea.

Treatment

• According to the Mayo Clinic, there is no known treatment for the viral gastroenteritis. The virus simply must run it course.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of viral gastroenteritis is based on the patient's symptoms.

Prevention

• The stomach flu is highly contagious. According to the Mayo Clinic, washing your hands thoroughly and regularly, refraining from sharing personal items, and avoiding contact with individuals who have the virus may prevent you from contracting the virus.

Complications

• According to the Mayo Clinic, dehydration is the most common complication of viral gastroenteritis. Drinking plenty of fluids may help prevent dehydration.