Stomach bug: vomiting and diarrhea
In short: most stomach bugs, such as norovirus, get better on their own within 1 to 3 days. The most important things are to keep sipping fluids so you don't get dehydrated, and to wash your hands well so you don't pass it on.
What a stomach bug is
A "stomach bug" usually means an infection of the stomach and gut, often caused by norovirus, a virus that spreads very easily. Symptoms usually start 12 to 48 hours after you catch it and include:
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Feeling sick (nausea) and stomach pain
- Sometimes a fever, headache or body aches
There is no specific medicine for norovirus, and antibiotics don't work on viruses.
Looking after yourself
- Sip fluids often. Small sips every few minutes are easier to keep down than a big drink. Water, clear broth, sports drinks and diluted fruit juice can all help.
- Eat when you feel ready. Start with soft, plain foods as you get better.
- Rest.
- Ask a pharmacist before taking any medicine for diarrhea or vomiting, and about rehydration drinks for children. Follow the packet instructions.
Signs of dehydration
- Passing less urine than usual, or dark yellow urine
- A dry mouth or throat, or feeling very thirsty
- Feeling dizzy when you stand up
- In children: crying without tears, sunken eyes, or being unusually sleepy or fussy
Read more in Signs of dehydration.
Stop it spreading
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet and before handling food. See How to wash your hands properly.
- Stay home for 2 days (48 hours) after your symptoms stop.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that may have been soiled, and wash soiled laundry on a hot cycle.
- Keep washing your hands well after you feel better: you can still spread norovirus for 2 weeks or more.
When to see a doctor
- Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days, or vomiting lasting more than 24 hours
- You can't keep any fluids down for 12 hours, or haven't passed urine for 8 hours or more
- A fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher
- Severe pain in your belly or back passage
- Black, tarry stools, or blood or pus in your stools
- Signs of dehydration, especially in babies, young children, older adults or people with a weakened immune system
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you are vomiting blood or something that looks like coffee grounds, you think the vomiting may be caused by poisoning, someone faints or becomes confused, or the vomiting or diarrhea won't stop.
Sources
- CDC: About norovirus
- MedlinePlus: Diarrhea
- MedlinePlus: Nausea and vomiting in adults
- MedlinePlus: When to use the emergency room