What is a stomach virus? What causes it and when will it go away?

Answer 1

Vomiting often result of stomach virus

By Tamara Shankel, MD

Almost every child experiences vomiting at some point. Most of the time vomiting is caused by different centers in the brain sending signals to the stomach.

The brain actually has a vomiting center, but other centers, such as the area affected by strong emotions, can also cause vomiting. The inner ear connects to a brain center that is responsible for the vomiting we experience with motion sickness.

Vomiting can also occur when your intestines are irritated and your stomach doesn't empty (this usually is the cause of vomiting with the stomach flu).

The most common cause of short-term vomiting is a stomach infection, which is usually caused by a virus. Viruses, unlike bacteria, do not respond to medication. Vomiting caused by a stomach virus will usually be accompanied by diarrhea, stomach cramping and a mild fever (101 degrees). Although it is much less common, bacteria can cause vomiting, along with a high fever (104 degrees) and diarrhea that may be bloody.

The parasite Giardia can also cause vomiting and watery diarrhea. Children get this infection by drinking water contaminated with Giardia, or from other infected children. Children in day care or children who have recently been camping are more likely to get Giardia. The infection can be diagnosed by a stool test and treated with an antibiotic.

Infections outside of the stomach (such as kidney, lung and even ear infections) can also cause vomiting. They also cause high fevers and other symptoms. Your child may not have diarrhea, and this is a clue that the illness may be more than just the stomach flu. Even more serious infections such as meningitis can cause vomiting. A child over age two with meningitis will usually appear very ill and have a stiff neck and headache along with the vomiting. Younger children will also look very ill, but may just have fever and vomiting.

Persistent vomiting may be due to pressure in the brain. Some brain tumors cause vomiting. Usually children with brain tumors also complain of headaches or other symptoms such as difficulty walking or imbalance.

Infants often spit up because of a weak sphincter between the stomach and esophagus (tube connecting the mouth to the stomach).

True, persistent vomiting in infants can be due to formula intolerance, and will usually be accompanied by loose stools and other symptoms.

If your child begins vomiting, let her stomach rest before giving her anything to eat or drink. The biggest risk from short-term vomiting is dehydration. Signs of dehydration include decreased urination, a dry mouth, sunken eyes, a sunken soft spot (on a baby's head) and lack of tears when crying.

To avoid dehydration, give your child frequent small amounts (a teaspoon) of liquid, such as Pedialyte. Larger amounts of liquid will cause the stomach to dilate, which will in turn cause more vomiting. If your child also has diarrhea, avoid milk and apple juice, as they can worsen the diarrhea.

Breast milk is the exception; it's OK to continue breastfeeding in small amounts.

Take your child to the doctor immediately if he or she:

· Has persistent vomiting that lasts more than a day or two, especially if the vomiting is severe, accompanied by a lot of diarrhea, or doesn't improve.

· Has vomit that is green in color, which could signal a serious intestinal problem.

· Shows signs of dehydration.

· Has blood in the vomit; anything more than a few flecks requires immediate medical care. Blood that has been in the stomach for a while before being vomited may look like coffee grounds.

· Has vomiting accompanied by a high fever and bloody diarrhea.

· Has trouble staying alert or seems very ill.

· Has vomiting accompanied by a bad cough, trouble breathing, or pain while urinating.

· Is a very young infant and has persistent vomiting, as some serious inherited diseases can be present at this age.

Most of the time, vomiting will improve within a day. There are medications that can help vomiting, but it is usually not a good idea to give them to children who have the stomach flu. If you have any questions about your child's illness, be sure to contact your pediatrician.

Dr. Tamara Shankel is assistant professor in internal medicine and pediatrics at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital. To suggest topics for future columns, call toll-free [phone].

Published 2/17/2001

Answer 2

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Answer 3

It's cause by a virus, and the length depends on the type of virus--there are many! I have found that my body burns up viruses really fast if I eat alot of really spicy foods and protien-packed foods.

Answer 4

This germ had caused me to have phobia of germs. It is cause by people not washing their hands after they go to the restroom. NASTY! It can last up to a week. I hope it goes away in a day or two, for you. It put me in the hospital. I got it from my 3 year old niece, after she drank out of my glass. Good Luck.

Answer 5

It is an airborne viris. It just happens to catch people once in a while and lasts for about 2-3 days. Just drink lots of water and juice to make sure you don't get dehydrated.....I'm a mom, and I know for a fact that this works.

Answer 6

they usually last a day or two. not sure what causes them but it is horrible to have one. I have had one since yesterday but it is a little better now. good luck.