Doc Talk: Dangers of the Stomach Flu and treatments
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- In our weekly feature, Doc Talk, pediatric emergency doctor, Clint Pollack from Valley Children's Hospital talks about the stomach flu and how parents should properly treat it once it occurs.
Dr. Pollack says symptoms may include frequent vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and loss of appetite.
Dr. Pollack says most often caused by viruses, but can be caused by bacteria or parasites.
Dr. Pollack says drinking plenty of clear liquids is the most important treatment.
Dr. Pollack says stomach flu can be managed at home if symptoms are mild.
He says children with more severe symptoms should be seen by a doctor.
Dr. Pollack says the infection is spread from germs in the bowel movements, so frequent handwashing is very important, especially after going to the bathroom or changing a diaper.
He says treatment may include medicine for vomiting (Zofran/ondansetron) and probiotics for diarrhea. Severe dehydration may require IV fluids.
Dr. Pollack says antibiotics are usually not given for stomach flu and may make symptoms worse or cause other complications.
He says diarrhea medicine such as Imodium should not be given to children and may be harmful.
