The stomach bug makes you feel terrible and can prevent you from continuing your normal activities for days. Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea make everyday life difficult. When your body works hard to fight off the virus, there are ways you can speed up the recovery process.
Some helpful tips to flush out a stomach bug include staying hydrated, resting, eating light meals, and avoiding irritants like alcohol and caffeine. Many people in Palm Beach County also choose IV therapy to rehydrate faster.
Keep reading to learn more effective ways to recover and get back to feeling your best.
What Causes Stomach Bug?
A stomach bug, also called gastroenteritis, happens when viruses infect your stomach and intestines. These viruses spread through contaminated food, water, or contact with infected people. Here are the main causes:
- Norovirus: The most common cause of stomach bug in adults. It spreads easily and survives on surfaces for a long time.
- Rotavirus: Mostly affects young children. A vaccine helps prevent severe infections.
- Astrovirus: Mainly affects kids under 3 and spreads in daycare centers and elder care homes.
- Adenovirus: Usually causes colds but can also infect the stomach if swallowed. It affects both kids and adults.
Typical Symptoms of a Stomach Bug
A stomach bug affects your stomach and intestines, causing different symptoms. Here are some common signs you might have a stomach bug:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Body aches
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
3 Common Ways to Get Rid of Stomach Bug?
Your immune system fights off the stomach bug on its own. It just takes a few days to do its work. Here are three ways to recover fast:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough fluids is the most essential step in recovering from a stomach bug. Vomiting and diarrhea cause your body to lose water and essential electrolytes. Without proper hydration, you may feel weak, dizzy, or even experience muscle cramps.
To rehydrate, try to drink at least 8–10 cups of fluids daily, but increase intake if you’re losing fluids through vomiting or diarrhea. Plus you can sip on electrolyte drinks like sports drinks or rehydration solutions.
Coconut water is also a great choice since it’s packed with potassium. Herbal teas with ginger or peppermint can soothe nausea while keeping you hydrated. If you struggle to drink, take small sips frequently to avoid worsening nausea.
2. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications
OTC medications can help relieve stomach bug symptoms, especially diarrhea. Loperamide (Imodium) slows digestion and helps you go to the bathroom less often. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can ease nausea, protect your stomach lining, and reduce inflammation.
However, these medicines are not always safe for children. Always consult a doctor before giving them to kids. If you have a fever or bloody diarrhea, avoid taking OTC medications, as these symptoms could indicate a bacterial or parasitic infection that requires medical treatment. When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional to ensure you choose the safest option.
3. Eat Small, Easy-To-Digest Meals
You should continue eating your daily foods to recover from a stomach bug. When you’re sick, your stomach is sensitive, and heavy meals can make things worse. Instead of eating large portions, stick to small, easy-to-digest meals.
It helps your stomach heal while still giving your body the nutrients it needs. Plus, avoid spicy, fried, or greasy foods, as they can make your symptoms worse.
Here’s a list of foods that are gentle on your stomach:
| Food Group | Examples |
| BRAT Foods | Bananas, rice, applesauce, toast |
| Bland Foods | Crackers, oatmeal, grits, porridge, plain noodles, gelatin |
| Lean Proteins | Boiled eggs, skinless chicken, lean beef, tofu, low-fat fish |
| Fruits | Canned peaches, pears, watermelon, honeydew melon |
| Vegetables | Cooked carrots, zucchini, sweet potatoes, pumpkin |
| Dairy | Plain yogurt, lactose-free milk, cottage cheese |
| Grains | Whole-grain bread, sugar-free cereals, plain pasta |
Additional Recovery Options to Ease Symptoms
In addition to staying hydrated and eating the right foods, there are other ways to help ease symptoms of a stomach bug. These options can make you feel more comfortable as you recover:
i) Rest As Much As Possible
When you’re sick, your body works hard to fight the infection. Moving around too much makes it harder for your body to heal. To recover faster, give your body the rest it needs.
Sleep as much as possible and take it easy during the day. If you have a stomach bug, it’s best to lie down or sit comfortably. Rest helps your body get stronger and feel better quicker. Take it slow and let your body recover.
ii) Use Probiotics For Gut Health
Probiotics are helpful bacteria that support your gut health, especially when sick. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases suggests that probiotics may help reduce diarrhea, a common symptom of a stomach bug.
They help restore healthy bacteria in your stomach and intestines. You can find probiotics in foods like yogurt, kefir, or certain supplements. However, probiotics are not a cure for a stomach virus. Always talk to a doctor if your symptoms are severe or make it hard to stay hydrated.
iii) Avoid Alcohol And Caffeine
When you have a stomach bug, it’s essential to avoid alcohol and caffeine. Both can make dehydration worse. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it makes you urinate more and causes you to lose fluids quickly.
It can also irritate your stomach and make vomiting and diarrhea worse. Caffeine can stimulate your intestines, which might worsen diarrhea and vomiting. It can make it harder for you to sleep, and rest is essential for healing.
iv) Quick Lost Fluids And Electrolytes Replacement
If you are experiencing severe dehydration and other health complications due to the stomach bug, it’s crucial to replace lost fluids and electrolytes as quickly as possible. Dehydration can worsen symptoms and slow down recovery, so acting fast can make a huge difference.
Many people in Palm Beach County restore hydration through IV therapy. Though it doesn’t cure your symptoms directly, your doctor may prescribe it to treat moderate to severe hydration. This method delivers fluids directly into your bloodstream and quickly replenishes lost electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
Professional IV providers, like WEL Palm Beach, will assess your condition and recommend the best fluids for your needs. With IV therapy, you can feel more hydrated and begin your recovery much faster.
When Should You Consider IV Therapy for Stomach Bug?
Here are a few signs when you might need IV therapy for dehydration caused by the stomach bug:
- Low blood pressure or rapid heart rate
- Drop in electrolyte levels
- Less and darker urine output
- Frequent vomiting over a long period
- Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days
How Long Does Stomach Bug Last?
A stomach bug usually lasts 1–2 days but can last up to 10 days. How long it lasts depends on which virus is causing it. Most people experience vomiting for 1–2 days. Diarrhea often improves within 3 days, but it can last up to 7 days. The severity and length of symptoms may vary. If symptoms last longer or worsen, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor.
When Should You Contact A Doctor About A Stomach Bug?
You should contact a doctor if you notice signs of dehydration, such as a parched mouth and little or no urine. Dehydration can be dangerous. So, it’s essential to get help if these symptoms appear. You should also see a doctor if your stomach bug symptoms last longer than a week or if they get worse.
If you have severe pain, high fever, or blood in your vomit or stool, seek medical attention immediately. A doctor can diagnose the problem and suggest the best treatment to help you recover safely.
How Can You Prevent a Stomach Bug?
Preventing a stomach bug is essential to keep you and others healthy. Here are some ways to reduce the risk of getting one:
- Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.
- Disinfect areas contaminated with vomit or diarrhea using a bleach-based solution.
- Wash clothes and bedding in hot water and add bleach or oxygenated detergent.
- Make sure shellfish is cooked thoroughly, and wash fruits and vegetables.
- Stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop to avoid spreading the virus.
- Ensure small children are vaccinated against rotavirus.
- Properly handle and dispose of dirty diapers to prevent spreading germs.
- Don’t share food, drinks, or utensils to stop germs from spreading.
In Closing
Flushing out a stomach bug can be challenging. However, with the right steps, you can feel better faster. Proper hydration, plenty of rest, and light, easy-to-digest meals help your body heal. IV therapy offers quick relief by rehydrating your body and restoring essential nutrients. It works faster than drinking liquids and is especially helpful if you cannot keep fluids down due to vomiting.
If you’re looking for a professional IV provider in Palm Beach County, contact us today to find out how we can support your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’m dehydrated from the stomach bug?
Signs of dehydration include feeling dizzy, having a dry mouth, dark urine, or urinating less often. If you notice these, it’s essential to drink fluids and consult a doctor.
Can I eat food while recovering from the stomach bug?
Yes! Eat light and easy-to-digest foods like crackers, bananas, and rice. Avoid spicy or greasy foods until you feel better to prevent stomach upsetting.
Can IV therapy help if I’m vomiting a lot?
Yes, IV therapy is effective for replenishing fluids when vomiting is severe. It provides hydration and electrolytes quickly, helping you feel better and avoid complications like dehydration.
