Can a stomach flu also occur without diarrhoea?
A stomach flu does not necessarily have to go with all symptoms. Sometimes there is only vomiting or only diarrhoea. You can therefore also have a stomach flu without suffering from diarrhoea. In these cases, the disease is usually caused by viruses, as a bacterial infection of the gastrointestinal tract is usually more aggressive and characterized by bloody diarrhea.
What symptoms does a baby have when it gets the stomach flu?
Babies do not yet have a fully developed immune system and are therefore very sensitive to infections. The main cause of gastroenteritis in babies is rotavirus, which leads to severe diarrhea and vomiting. Sometimes a fever can also occur.
The greatest danger of gastro-enteritis in babies is dehydration (dehydration). The vomiting and diarrhoea lead to severe fluid loss, so it is very important to ensure that the sick child has a sufficient fluid intake. This is achieved by breastfeeding the children more often and giving them additional fluid in the form of camomile tea or still water. Infants who are suspected of having the stomach flu must be examined and treated by a doctor.In case of severe dehydration, a gastrointestinal infection in babies can be fatal and should therefore not be underestimated.
What symptoms do infants show with gastroenteritis?
Children, especially in the first years of life, are more likely to develop gastrointestinal infections, which are usually caused by rotavirus or norovirus. The symptoms in infants and children are similar to those of adults: sudden, gushing vomiting and severe diarrhea, which can be accompanied by flatulence. In some cases increased temperature or fever may occur.
In children it is especially important to protect them from dehydration and to make sure that they drink enough. The disease usually disappears on its own after two to three days. In the case of small children or very severe courses of the disease, a pediatrician should always be consulted to ensure that the child has not lost too much fluid. For dehydrated children, the doctor can administer an electrolyte solution. This topic may also be of interest to you: Vomiting in small children
