Stomach Virus Remedies

Are There Any Quick Stomach Virus Cures?

Stomach virus remedies are most effective when if you can get to a doctor as soon as symptoms start. He or she can tell you the best course of treatment. But even before you get to your doctor's office, there are some stomach virus remedies that may give you some relief from your symptoms. Unfortunately, there are no quick stomach virus remedies or stomach virus cures that will shut down your symptoms in a few hours. Once you have a stomach virus, it will last at least a day or two.

In the meantime, you can rest and try to relax. The truth is, you're probably not going to feel very energetic anyway, and you're definitely going to want to stay near a bathroom. Vomiting and diarrhea are the most obvious symptoms of a stomach virus.

Avoid eating anything for a few hours after the onset of symptoms.

You'll be losing a lot of fluids, so take small sips of clear liquids. Don't gulp or drink large amounts quickly. You can let ice chips melt in your mouth if vomiting persists.

If you're caring for an infant or small child with a stomach virus, give them oral rehydration solutions (also known as ORS) to keep their fluid levels up. These solutions are available at most pharmacies, and you don't need a prescription.

Carefully start to eat bland, soft, easily digestible food. Broth, apples, bananas, pretzels or crackers, plain noodles and toast are good.

Avoid acidic fruit juices, dairy products, anything containing caffeine, carbonated drinks and alcoholic beverages. Non-caffeinated soft drinks are okay as long as you let them sit until they're flat, or are no longer "fizzing."

When you have a stomach virus, be ready for some pain or discomfort from stomach cramps and headaches. You may also experience muscle aches. It's okay to take pain killers with acetaminophen, like Excedrin and Tylenol. These don't upset your stomach as easily as medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen.

If the pain becomes severe, ask your doctor for Oxycodone, which will reduce the abdominal pain and relax you so you'll have a better chance of getting some rest.

Stomach virus remedies do not include antibiotics. Remember, a stomach virus is a virus and not bacteria. Antibiotics are useless against viruses, so don't expect your doctor to prescribe one. Antibiotics, in fact, can make your symptoms worse.

As your symptoms pass and you get back to normal, you can gradually reintroduce the foods you normally eat. Don't rush it.

People who have a stomach virus commonly refer to it as "stomach flu," even though it's not a form of influenze. The medical name is viral gastroenteritis.

This article is intended to provide basic, introductory information to the general public about stomach virus remedies. It is not intended to be a replacement for professional medical advice. Before taking any action related to your health, always talk to your doctor.

You can learn more about stomach viruses by clicking on How Do You Get The Stomach Virus and What Is A Stomach Virus? and Foods For Stomach Flu.