How Long Does A Stomach Virus Last

How long does a stomach virus last?

Suffering from a stomach ache? Wondering if it’s a stomach virus and how long does a stomach virus last? A stomach virus is an internal disease and is commonly known as Viral Gastroenteritis. There is no definite cure for this other than time, with time it tends to get better. And like many other viruses even this stomach virus acts against the affects of the anti-biotic. On average a stomach virus or flu takes about 2-3 days to recover from cause of its incubation period.

Various viruses cause Viral Gastroenteritis. Of all the others being the cause of the virus, the two that play a major role and can be contagious are Norovirus and Rotavirus.

• Norovirus – This virus is the most common cause of the stomach flu. It is also very contagious, hence with the initial sight of the symptom one is suggested to visit the doctor and get the adequate treatment possible. How long does this virus last for? Just like any other virus and its incubation period this also lasts for about 2-3 days in the patient’s body. How long does this last for in an infant or child’s case? In an infant or child’s case it lasts for more than 3 days, mostly till a week. And the virus is more contagious in a child’s case in comparison to that of an adult’s one.
• Rotavirus – This virus is the secondary reason for Viral Gastroenteritis. Again has the same affects and is also contagious like a Norovirus. Sharing food or water from the same source is preferred to be avoided. As any kind of close contact with the patient can easily transfer the virus on to others. Special care is needed if the patient is a child. A good Hygiene and precautions can help in stopping the virus from spreading. And how long does this stomach virus last? This lasts for about 2-3 days.

There are various symptoms of a Viral Gastroenteritis. It can vary from mild to severe depending upon the severity of the flu. Few initial symptoms to look out for will have to be fever, stomach aches, and in worse cases if the flu is too severe one can even experience vomiting and diarrhea. How long does this kind of symptom last for? This kind of symptoms last till the swelling or the inflammation in the stomach completely heals. As this virus causes swelling in the stomach as well as in the intestines, which results in vomiting and diarrhea. In a condition like this the patient is prescribed to follow a strict liquid diet. How long does the patient need to follow a liquid diet for? Till the patient’s excessive dehydration subsides as it helps in easing out the swelling and inflammation. Drinks containing electrolytes are best for this state; it not only provides energy but also aids the dehydration process. But any kind of drink must be consumed in small durations and in small sips. Mostly soups, liquid based and clear food items must be consumed. Avoiding any kind of greasy, spicy and salty food items for at least a week would be preferable. How long does the stomach virus last for? The stomach virus lasts for 2-3 days; it takes about a week’s time for the inflammation and the swelling caused by the virus to completely heal. With the necessary medication and diet one must get proper rest and avoid any kind exertion or physical activity. As with the excessive dehydration caused by the virus it tends to slow down our metabolism.