A sudden bout of nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea can leave anyone miserable and wondering how long it will last and whether it will wreck the week ahead. Often called a tummy bug, or wrongly stomach flu, it is usually gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, and while most healthy people recover within a few days, knowing how to replace lost fluids and when to seek help makes a real difference.
What causes a tummy bug?
Viruses such as norovirus are the most common cause and spread easily through contaminated food, water and surfaces or close contact with someone who is ill. Bacteria and parasites in food or water can cause similar symptoms, which usually include watery diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps and sometimes a mild fever or muscle aches.
Why is dehydration the biggest risk?
Diarrhoea and vomiting drain water and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium quickly, and dehydration is the main complication, especially in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Watch for dry mouth, passing less urine, dark urine, dizziness and extreme thirst, and remember that babies and young children lose fluid much faster than adults, so they should see a doctor sooner.
How do you replace lost fluids and salts?
Sip fluids often rather than gulping, which can make nausea worse. Oral rehydration solutions from pharmacies, such as Sunninghill Square Pharmacy, and supermarkets are ideal because they contain the right balance of salt, glucose and water, and adults can also use diluted sports drinks or clear broth. Avoid full strength fruit juice, fizzy drinks, caffeine and alcohol, and once the vomiting eases, bring back bland foods such as rice, toast and bananas, which also replace potassium.
When should you see a doctor?
Most cases improve within a few days, although diarrhoea can last up to a week. Get medical help if vomiting or diarrhoea continues, or if there is a high fever, blood in the stool, severe stomach pain or signs of dehydration, as a doctor can check for complications and give a drip if drinking is not enough.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a tummy bug last?
Most tummy bugs clear in one to three days, though diarrhoea can linger for up to a week.
What should you drink with diarrhoea?
Small, frequent sips of an oral rehydration solution are best, with water, diluted sports drinks or clear broth as alternatives for adults.
Where to find Dr Masemola
Dr Tshego Masemola is a general practitioner who practises at The Square Shopping Centre in Sunninghill, on the corner of Leeuwkop and Naivasha roads. Her rooms are open Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00, and on Saturdays by appointment only.
Shop: 10A, The Square Shopping Centre, Sunninghill
Tel: 010 010 6327
WhatsApp: 068 055 9685
Email: tshego@drmasemola.co.za
Website: www.drmasemola.co.za
