Distinguishing symptoms of stomach flu and food poisoning

Diarrhea and vomiting occur in people with food poisoning, while people with stomach flu often have additional gastrointestinal symptoms such as fever, chills, and headache.

Symptoms of stomach flu and food poisoning both cause abdominal discomfort. Photo: Freepik

Stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis ) is contagious. Meeting in closed spaces, close contact are some suitable conditions for stomach flu virus to develop. Meanwhile, food poisoning is caused by bacterial infection from improperly processed and stored foods.

Bacteria and viruses are both recognized as "enemies" when entering the body. Therefore, the body's reactions in both diseases are nausea or vomiting to push the foreign bodies out so that the body can recover soon. In severe cases, the patient may pass watery stools, possibly with blood. Bloody diarrhea is often caused by a rapid onset of the disease, causing intestinal disturbances. Some people may experience fever and chills.

Donald Ford, Cleveland Clinic Hospital, USA, said, the following symptoms of onset can help distinguish food poisoning from stomach flu.

Starting time

Food poisoning begins and progresses faster than stomach flu. Stomach flu symptoms start after about 24-48 hours, while people with food poisoning show symptoms quickly, 2-6 hours after eating poor quality food.

According to Dr. Ford, some of the following symptoms in the two diseases are also different:

Stomach flu symptoms are varied: Common unpleasant symptoms are nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Along with that, the patient also had fever, chills and gastroenteritis at the same time. Unlike the flu, the stomach flu, in addition to causing fever and chills, is also accompanied by a feeling of nausea. Stomach flu patients also have diarrhea.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning : Vomiting and diarrhea are the two main symptoms of food poisoning. Occasionally, the sick person may have a fever and dehydration.

These two diseases also differ in the rhythm of eating and drinking. For example, if food poisoning happens unfortunately at a party, many people may experience symptoms at the same time right after the meal. Meanwhile, with stomach flu, after a meal with a small group or with someone who is sick, symptoms can start to appear similar to you after a few days. Because of the difference in the time of onset, food poisoning can be easier to recognize and detect, with timely treatment solutions.

How to cure and prevent disease

Dr. Ford suggests, resting and drinking plenty of fluids are natural ways to help relieve symptoms of stomach flu and food poisoning . Because the body is trying to get rid of bacteria and viruses, it will also push out beneficial fluids like water. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration, especially when you have a fever. If you're drowsy, tired, showing signs of lack of concentration, or having trouble conversing in a coherent manner, it could be a sign of dehydration and need medical attention.

Electrolytes are also lost as the body loses water. Electrolytes are minerals available in the body, such as sodium, potassium and magnesium... that help the body absorb fluids better. According to Dr. Ford, drinking electrolyte water is a useful way to keep the body hydrated. Symptoms can go away after about 2 days and do not require medication.

If food poisoning or stomach flu causes a high fever of 38 degrees Celsius, you should see your doctor. Your doctor will ask about your recent eating history to diagnose the disease and treat it accordingly.

Food poisoning can be prevented if you pay attention to eating and storing food properly. Washing hands thoroughly before meals, eating separate portions and always drinking enough water are some tips to help prevent stomach flu.