The stomach is the primary organ in the human digestive system. It is where the body processes food that is eaten and extracts vital nutrients while passing the food into the intestines for further digestion and expulsion. The most common virus that could affect the stomach is known as stomach flu. Medically, it is known as Gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis, or gastro, is a condition where the stomach lining becomes inflamed. It also affects the lining of the small intestine which is immediately after the stomach in the digestive system. Gastroenteritis is not related to any particular cause and it could be caused either by bacterial infections or viral infections. Gastro simply means that you have an inflamed stomach and intestinal lining problem.
When you suffer from gastroenteritis, you will have symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, fever, appetite loss, pain, and flatulence. When you suffer from any of these symptoms, you may have gastroenteritis. However, the severity of infection and symptoms is different from case to case. Some people suffer from mild gastro and do not even notice it as it causes a little discomfort and is often passed off as an upset stomach or mild gas. However, in severe cases, gastro may last for many days and cause weight loss and other health issues.
It is therefore recommended to take some steps when you or your children are infected with a stomach problem like gastro. Primarily, the patient should increase his or her fluid intake to compensate for the fluid that is lost through diarrhea. Fluids help wash out the system as well as, in the case of water, to dilute stomach acids and bring some relief. Electrolyte drinks can also be consumed to give some much needed energy to the patient. Some natural juices like lemon juice may also work to improve the condition of the patient by providing extra energy and hydration.
From a diet point of view, the patient should consume extremely light food that is not difficult to digest. Food that contains fiber should be encouraged as this will bind the food in the stomach well and improve the consistency of the fecal matter. Bananas are especially good for calming an upset stomach and also contain a lot of energy which will help in the recovery process. Herbal teas and toast are simple foods that will calm the stomach and provide nutrition simultaneously.
Persistent symptoms should be shown to a doctor who may need to medically treat the infection to bring respite to the patient.