[26F] Experiencing gastrointestinal and flu-like symptoms with headache
Patient Description
Show More
Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on your symptoms, here are a few possible conditions:
-
Viral Gastroenteritis: Often referred to as the stomach flu, this is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by a viral infection. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and body aches.
- Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.
-
Influenza: Commonly known as the flu, this is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system. Symptoms can include headache, body aches, fever, chills, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhea.
- Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. Antiviral medications may be prescribed by a doctor if the flu is caught early.
-
Food Poisoning: This occurs when you eat contaminated food. Symptoms can start within hours of eating the contaminated food and can include nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, and fever.
- Treatment usually involves hydration and rest. In severe cases, medical treatment may be needed.
What you can do
- Stay hydrated: Diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration which can make you feel worse. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water or rehydration solutions available over the counter at your local pharmacy.
- Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting extra sleep can help.
- Over-the-counter medication: You can use over-the-counter medications to help with symptoms such as headache and body aches.
- Eat light: If you can eat without vomiting, eat light, bland foods like rice, crackers, or bananas.
What you should look out for
Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Symptoms persist for more than a few days
- Severe headache or neck stiffness
- Blood in your stool or vomit
- Signs of dehydration such as extreme thirst, dry mouth, little to no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
Please remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.
Show More
Save
9 mo ago