Diarrhea and the Stomach Flu
Diarrhea and the Stomach Flu
Most people don't need to see the doctor when they have the stomach flu. But it's a good idea to get medical attention if you or your child has stomach flu and:
In rare cases, people with stomach flu need to be hospitalized, usually because of dehydration. In adults, dehydration can cause extreme thirst, decreased urination, dark urine, dry skin, fatigue, and dizziness. In babies and young children, dehydration can cause:
Anyone with signs of dehydration needs medical help right away.
Diarrhea and the Stomach Flu
In this article
- What Is the Stomach Flu?
- Treating Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
- Protecting Yourself from Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
- When to See a Doctor
When to See a Doctor
Most people don't need to see the doctor when they have the stomach flu. But it's a good idea to get medical attention if you or your child has stomach flu and:
- Is under 3 months old
- Is over 3 months old and has been vomiting for more than 12 hours or the diarrhea hasn't gotten better after two days
- Is an adult and the diarrhea hasn’t gotten a little better after two days
- Has other symptoms, such as high fever or blood or pus in the stool
In rare cases, people with stomach flu need to be hospitalized, usually because of dehydration. In adults, dehydration can cause extreme thirst, decreased urination, dark urine, dry skin, fatigue, and dizziness. In babies and young children, dehydration can cause:
- Crying without tears
- Going three hours or more without a wet diaper
- Fever
- Dry tongue and mouth
- Extreme crankiness
- Sunken fontanel, the soft spot on the top of a baby's head
- Sunken cheeks or eyes
Anyone with signs of dehydration needs medical help right away.
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