Nausea and vomiting accompanied by a fever of
100°F (37.8°C) or lower and
diarrhea are common symptoms of viral stomach flu. These symptoms usually go
away without medical treatment and should start to improve within 12 to 24
hours. After 48 hours, your symptoms should be mild. Diarrhea usually goes away
in a week or sooner.
A fever of
100°F (37.8°C) or higher that
lasts longer than 24 hours may be caused by a bacterial infection. Symptoms
that may indicate a more serious infection include shaking chills and fainting.
A visit to a health professional is needed when these symptoms are
present.
If you have abdominal pain and a fever, watch for signs of
dehydration. Fever increases the potential for
dehydration by:
- Increasing fluid loss through sweating and rapid
breathing to cool the body.
- Interfering with drinking
fluids.