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Stomach flu and virus induced gastroenteritis

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January 9th, 2010
I recently have been having a lot of stomach discomfort and A LOT of bowel movements. I haven't been able to eat anything and I have been taking Peto bismal. I also have chest pains and pain in my back on the sides next to my ribs. This morning I woke up with a green tongue. I feel that when I don't move around I am in less pain. But if I move to much I get a lot of bubbles in my stomach and discomfort again. Yesterday I was able to hold down some chicken soup but it seems like it went right though me. Ive used the bathroom around 20 times in the last day and cant sleep. What could this be?


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replied February 6th, 2010
Cold, Flu and Viral Infections Answer A9779


Given the data you reported (stomach discomfort, diarrhea for 20 times a day, pain in the back on the side of the ribs and chest pain, bubbles in the stomach) you might be experiencing stomach flu (gastroenteritis).
Stomach flu is a condition in which there is an infection affecting the digestive system. It might be caused by bacteria, virus or parasites. The most common symptoms include: diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, stomach pain and cramps, loss of appetite and fever. Pain in the whole body might be present, too. The loss of fluids with the diarrhea might lead to dehydration and subsequent weakness and fainting.

You might want to visit a general practitioner for a physical examination. A stool culture might be needed to determine more precisely what caused the infection and to determine the most effective treatment. If bacteria are detected, then antibiotic would be given. If a virus caused the condition, then rehydration (providing the lost fluids) would be enough. The body usually has enough immune system strength to fight with the most common viruses, but it might need time. Most of the cases of gastroenteritis caused by viruses last for up to 24 hours.


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