Overview
Stomach viruses, also known as stomach flu or gastroenteritis, are a common ailment among children. The symptoms of stomach viruses can range from mild to severe and can include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. These symptoms can be caused by a variety of viruses, including norovirus and rotavirus. The good news is that stomach viruses are typically not serious and can be treated at home.
Symptoms
The symptoms of stomach viruses in children can include:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Fatigue
Symptoms can appear 12-48 hours after exposure to the virus and usually last for 1-3 days. However, in some cases, the symptoms may last longer.
Causes
Stomach viruses are caused by a variety of viruses, including norovirus, rotavirus, and adenovirus. These viruses can spread through contaminated food or water, or through close contact with an infected person. Children are particularly susceptible to stomach viruses because their immune systems are not yet fully developed.
Treatment
The main treatment for stomach viruses in children is to let the virus run its course. Most cases of stomach viruses will resolve on their own within a few days. In the meantime, there are several things you can do to help your child feel more comfortable:
- Offer plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Encourage rest
- Give over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to reduce fever and relieve discomfort
- Avoid giving your child foods that can worsen diarrhea, such as dairy products or spicy foods
In some cases, a pediatrician may recommend oral rehydration solutions, such as Pedialyte, to help prevent dehydration.
Prevention
The best way to prevent stomach viruses in children is to practice good hygiene. This includes:
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
- Avoiding sharing personal items, such as towels or utensils, with others
- Staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, such as the rotavirus vaccine
Citations
- Rakel, D., & Rakel, R. E. (2018). Textbook of Family Medicine (9th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier.
- Green, J., & Rothrock, S. G. (2017). Pediatric Emergency Medicine (2nd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
- Kliegman, R. M., Stanton, B. F., St. Geme, J. W., Schor, N. F., & Behrman, R. E. (2017). Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics (20th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier.
