Doctor's Notes on Norovirus Infection
Norovirus is a common virus that infects humans. It is the most common cause of gastroenteritis (often referred to erroneously as “stomach flu”) in the US. People get the virus by ingesting food or drink that has been contaminated with small amounts of feces or fluids from infected people, such as occurs with poor handwashing. Foods and water may become contaminated during processing, preparation, or handling.
Characteristic signs and symptoms of norovirus infection are vomiting, nausea, and a watery diarrhea. The symptoms usually last 2-3 days and the go away on their own. Fluid lost through diarrhea and vomiting can lead to associated symptoms of dehydration, and young children and the elderly are most at risk for these complications. Other possible associated symptoms are fever, abdominal cramping, muscle aches, tiredness, and headache.
Stomach Pain : Nausea & Other Causes Quiz
QuestionBowel regularity means a bowel movement every day.
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Diarrhea
Diarrhea can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, parasites, intestinal diseases or conditions, reactions to medications, and food intolerance or allergies. Symptoms of diarrhea include watery stools, abdominal cramping, fever, and dehydration. Most cases of diarrhea can be treated at home. In some cases (in the elderly, small children, or those with severe or chronic medical conditions) may need to be hospitalized due to dehydration. -
Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) Symptoms, Transmission, Contagious, and Cure
Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is most commonly caused by viruses and bacteria like Norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus, parvovirus, and Astrovirus. Bacteria causing gastroenteritis include Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, salmonella, shigella, Campylobacter, and C. difficile. Other causes may be due to chemical toxins. The stomach flu is contagious because it caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. You get the stomach flu from contaminated food and drinks from poor hygiene (not washing your hands after using the toilet). Common symptoms of the stomach flu are; mild to moderate diarrhea, abdominal cramping, abdominal bloating,and low grade fever. Home remedies to treat the stomach flu include rest and hydration to avoid dehydration. Over-the-counter or prescription medicine may be necessary to treat the signs and symptoms of the stomach flu (gastroenteritis). The stomach flu can be prevented by using proper hygiene when using the bathroom. -
Vomiting and Nausea
Vomiting and nausea are common complaints that accompany many conditions and diseases. A few common causes of vomiting and nausea include food poisoning, viruses, vertigo, head injuries, gallbladder disease, appendicitis, migraine, brain tumors, and infections. Treatment of vomiting and nausea depend on the cause of the symptoms.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.