Stomach Bug – Prevention and Treatment
Stomach bugs are one of the major causes of digestive disorders. The bacteria and viruses invading the digestive tract are largely blamed for indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Stomach bug causes
Gastrointestinal infections develop when harmful viruses or bacteria enter the stomach. Usually the bugs enter the stomach through intake of contaminated foods and drinks. Unclean hands are common sources of bugs. If you eat with unclean hands or put unclean hands in the mouth, bacteria and viruses living on your dirty hands will enter your digestive tract. Stomach infection that develops from consumption of contaminated food and water is known as food poisoning.
Stomach flu is another type of stomach infection caused by certain strains of viruses. The rotavirus and norovirus are largely associated with stomach flu. Stomach flu is a highly contagious disease. You would contract the infection by coming in contact with a person suffering from stomach flu. It usually takes about seven days for the symptoms of stomach flu to subside.
Stomach bug treatment
Loss of water through diarrhea and vomiting increases the risk of dehydration in people suffering from stomach infection. You should drink plenty of water to restore the water supply in your body. The digestion process slows down when the bugs are present in the stomach. To prevent complications, you should reduce your food intake. Eat small amounts of bland foods such as rice, applesauce, toast and boiled potatoes. Stay away from hot, spicy and fried foods. Avoid milk, dairy products and caffeine. Antibiotic medications could help to cure bacterial infections. If you are suffering viral infection, you need plenty of rest to recover from the illness rapidly.
Preventing stomach bug
You can keep the bugs away from your stomach through proper hygiene. To prevent food poisoning you should ensure that the food you are eating and the water you are drinking are free from contaminants. Avoid taking raw and undercooked foods. Always wash your hands and utensils. Try to eat freshly cooked foods. Stay away from people suffering from stomach flu. Do not share utensils, towels or personal items with people infected with stomach flu virus.
