When you think of the flu, you probably picture symptoms like fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, and coughing. But can the flu make you feel nauseous, too? Yes, nausea can occur with the flu. While gastrointestinal symptoms are more common in children with influenza, some adults can also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea along with typical respiratory symptoms. Because nausea can have many different causes, it's important to consider what other symptoms you have and how quickly they have developed. Here's what to know about nausea and the flu, including when it might be time to seek medical care.
For same-day flu testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our providers specialize in diagnosing and treating flu symptoms in patients of all ages. Simply walk in or plan your visit in advance below.
Can the Flu Cause Nausea?
Influenza primarily affects the respiratory system, but it can cause symptoms throughout the body. Some people with the flu experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms are more commonly reported in children than adults. In adults, nausea may occur alongside more recognizable flu symptoms, including:
- Fever or chills
- Body or muscle aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nausea or vomiting
Not everyone with the flu will experience nausea, and having nausea by itself doesn't necessarily mean you have influenza.
How Can you Tell If Nausea Is From the Flu?
Nausea can be caused by everything from something you ate to a stomach virus, medication side effects, migraines, or other illnesses. Looking at your symptoms as a whole can provide some helpful clues. If you have nausea along with a sudden fever, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue, and cough, influenza could be one possible cause.
A stomach virus, sometimes called viral gastroenteritis, is more likely to cause prominent digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Respiratory symptoms are generally not a major part of this illness. Food poisoning can also cause sudden nausea and abdominal pain.
What Should You Do If You Have Nausea With the Flu?
If you suspect you have the flu and your symptoms are mild, focus on rest and hydration. Nausea and vomiting can make it difficult to drink enough fluids, which increases the risk of dehydration. Try taking small, frequent sips of water or an electrolyte-containing drink rather than drinking a large amount at once. Once your stomach settles, bland foods such as crackers, toast, or bananas may be easier to tolerate. Getting plenty of rest can give your body time to recover. If you are at higher risk for complications from influenza, contact a healthcare provider promptly if you develop flu symptoms. Antiviral medications may be recommended for some people and generally work best when started early.
When Should You Seek Treatment for Nausea?
Mild nausea that improves as your illness gets better usually isn't a cause for concern. However, persistent nausea or vomiting can lead to dehydration and may require medical attention. Consider visiting an urgent care center if you:
- Can't keep fluids down
- Are vomiting repeatedly
- Have signs of dehydration
- Have persistent or worsening symptoms
- Have a high or persistent fever
- Have severe abdominal pain
- Feel unusually weak or dizzy
- Are concerned that your symptoms may be caused by something other than the flu
Signs of dehydration can include very dark urine, urinating much less than usual, dry mouth, significant thirst, weakness, and dizziness. You should seek emergency care for any severe symptoms. An urgent care center can evaluate your symptoms and test for influenza and other common respiratory illnesses.
Walk-In Flu Testing & Symptom Relief Available at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale
So, is nausea a flu symptom? It can be. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur with influenza, although gastrointestinal symptoms are more common in children than adults. If nausea appears alongside sudden fever, body aches, fatigue, headache, cough, or other flu symptoms, influenza may be one possible explanation. However, stomach viruses, food poisoning, and other conditions can cause similar symptoms. If you're unable to keep fluids down, showing signs of dehydration, experiencing severe symptoms, or simply aren't sure what's making you sick, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our providers can help determine the cause and whether treatment or testing is needed. Most insurance plans are accepted. If you have any questions about our services, please contact us directly at (303) 935-1000.