When you picture the flu, you envision fever, chills, body aches and exhaustion. But what about vomiting and diarrhea? The response varies depending on the flu strain. Although seasonal flu (influenza) primarily invades the lungs and throat, some strains– particularly influenza B– can also trigger stomach-related symptoms, including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. These are more common in children but occasionally affect adults as well. Stomach viruses like norovirus can also cause vomiting and diarrhea, so it’s easy to confuse them. Here’s an explanation of why the flu can sometimes lead to stomach problems and how to distinguish a flu from a stomach virus.

For same-day illness testing and care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care West Orange. We’re open seven days a week and operate on a walk-in basis meaning no appointments are required– just stop by today!

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Can The Flu Cause Gastrointestinal Symptoms?

Yes, the flu can sometimes cause vomiting and diarrhea, but it is more common in children than in adults. The flu is primarily a respiratory virus caused by the influenza virus, but some strains can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms in certain individuals. While these symptoms may occur, they are not usually the primary signs of influenza. The flu typically affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as:

• Fever and chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches and fatigue

Flu or Stomach Virus? How to Tell the Difference

The flu and stomach viruses can both cause vomiting and diarrhea, but how do you tell which you’ve got? Here’s a comparison, side by side:

How to Know Whether You Have the Flu or a Stomach Virus

• If you have vomiting, diarrhea and respiratory symptoms (fever, cough, congestion) then you most likely have the flu.
• If you have vomiting and diarrhea but no cough or congestion, then you probably have a stomach virus.

How to Cope With Vomiting and Diarrhea From the Flu

1. Stay Hydrated: Vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration, which could be dangerous, especially for young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Drink water, electrolyte beverages, or clear broths. Drink fluids by small sips if nausea is severe to avoid vomiting again. Steer clear of caffeine, alcohol and sugary beverages, as they can exacerbate dehydration.
 

2. Eat Small, Simple Meals: If you can eat, stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Avoid dairy, greasy, fried, or spicy foods, which can exacerbate nausea and diarrhea.

3. Rest as Much as Possible: Your body is doing a lot of work fighting the flu, so give it the rest it needs. Get more rest and try not to overexert yourself.

4.Take Over-the-Counter Medications: For fever and body aches take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). For nausea and vomiting, ginger tea or motion sickness tablets can help.

Get Walk-In Illness Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care West Orange

Though vomiting and diarrhea aren’t typical flu symptoms, they are possible. Most cases of vomiting and diarrhea related to flu can be treated at home with hydration, rest, and symptom relief. If you’re experiencing flu symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea, and are unsure of the cause, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care West Orange for evaluation. Early intervention can help you recover more quickly and prevent complications. At AFC Urgent Care West Orange, all patients are seen promptly and treated by licensed and board-certified medical providers. Most major insurances are accepted and we offer affordable rates for our self-pay patients. For more information about flu treatment, or other services we provide, please give us a call at (973) 669-5900.