Influenza A is one of the most common and contagious types of flu viruses, responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks each year. Most people associate the flu with fever, body aches, cough, and fatigue, but many are surprised when gastrointestinal symptoms appear. This often leads to an important question: Does the flu cause vomiting? The answer is yes, influenza A can cause vomiting, though it is more common in certain age groups and circumstances. Understanding why this happens and when vomiting becomes concerning can help you manage symptoms and know when to seek urgent care.
For same-day flu symptom relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park. Our urgent care and primary care services are designed to keep you and your family healthy all year long. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Why Vomiting Can Occur With Influenza A
Influenza A primarily affects the respiratory system, but it can also impact the body more broadly. Vomiting may occur due to several factors, including:
- The flu virus triggers a strong immune response that releases inflammatory chemicals throughout the body. These chemicals can irritate the stomach and digestive tract, leading to nausea or vomiting.
- Post-nasal drip caused by congestion can irritate the stomach, especially when mucus is swallowed repeatedly.
- High fever and dehydration can upset the stomach, making nausea and vomiting more likely.
- In children, the immune response to influenza A is often more intense, which is why vomiting and diarrhea are more commonly reported in pediatric flu causes than in adults.
Who Is More Likely To Experience Vomiting With The Flu?
Vomiting with influenza A is more common in:
- Children and infants
- Older adults
- People with sensitive stomachs
- Individuals with high fevers
- Those who are dehydrated
Adults without underlying conditions may experience nausea and vomiting, while children are more likely to have noticeable gastrointestinal symptoms.
Flu vs. Stomach Bug: How To Tell The Difference
Vomiting can make it difficult to distinguish between the flu and a stomach virus. However, influenza A usually includes respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, congestion, and body aches. A stomach bug, or viral gastroenteritis, typically causes prominent vomiting and diarrhea without significant respiratory symptoms. If vomiting is accompanied by severe body aches, fever, chills, and cough, influenza A may be the cause.
How Long Does Vomiting Last With Influenza A?
Vomiting related to the flu usually occurs early in the illness and improves within 1 to 2 days. Nausea may linger slightly longer, especially if appetite is reduced or dehydration is present. Persistent vomiting beyond 2 days or vomiting that worsens instead of improving should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Urgent care providers can test for influenza, recommend antiviral medications when appropriate, and provide treatment to control nausea and vomiting. Early treatment may reduce symptom severity and shorten recovery time.
Get Walk-In Flu-Related Nausea Relief at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park
Yes, influenza A can cause vomiting, especially in children and those with high fevers. While vomiting is often short-lived, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Urgent care can provide testing, symptom relief, and guidance to help you recover safely and comfortably. At AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park, we make it easy to stay proactive about your health. As a clinic that offers both primary care and urgent care, we’re equipped to help with everything from routine lab work and flu shots to same-day visits for flu symptoms. Visit our center today to stay ahead of preventable illnesses. Most health insurance plans are accepted and low-cost options are available for self-paying patients. Call us directly at (303) 381-1100 for more information.
