Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am 45 years old and feeling rough. I think I have got norovirus. I have been throwing up like crazy, and my stomach hurts badly. It has been three days now, and I cannot keep anything down; even water feels like it makes my stomach burn.
I have a history of gastritis, so this is hitting me even harder. I tried sipping electrolyte drinks, but they made me queasy. Can I take something for the vomiting that will not mess up my stomach more? Also, do you have any tips on what I can eat that won’t make it worse? Could norovirus make my gastritis worse permanently? I am getting so weak that I am just lying in bed all day. Should I go to the hospital if I still cannot eat by tomorrow?
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
Are you taking any medications for gastritis? It is not necessarily norovirus. For vomiting, you can take any antiemetic over-the-counter.
If vomiting persists, it is better to plan a basic investigation as soon as possible. These investigations include:
CBC (complete blood count).
ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate).
LFT (liver function test).
RBS (random blood sugar).
Monitor vitals like pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, temperature, etc.
If you experience any of the following, seek medical attention:
Severe vomiting that lasts for more than two days.
Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material.
Severe abdominal pain or cramping.
Fever above 101.5°F (Fahrenheit) (38.6°C degree centigrade).
Signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dark urine, or dizziness.
I advise you to follow some tips:
Foods to choose:
Bland foods: Opt for bland, easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet).
Lean proteins: Include lean protein sources like tofu.
Low-fat dairy: Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Ginger: Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate nausea and vomiting.
Herbal teas: Herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root tea may help soothe the stomach.
Foods to avoid:
Spicy foods: Avoid spicy, acidic, or fatty foods that can irritate the stomach lining.
Citrus fruits and juices: Citrus fruits and juices, like orange, grapefruit, or lemon, can exacerbate gastritis symptoms.
Caffeine: Limit or avoid caffeine, as it can stimulate stomach acid production.
Carbonated drinks: Avoid carbonated beverages like soda, beer, or sparkling water, which can lead to bloating and discomfort.
Fatty or fried foods: Avoid fatty or fried foods, as they can slow digestion and worsen gastritis symptoms.
Additional tips include:
Eat small, frequent meals: Divide your daily food intake into four to six small meals to reduce symptoms.
Avoid lying down after eating: Wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
Consider a probiotic: Probiotics can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and alleviate gastritis symptoms.
Kindly consult a specialist doctor, talk with them, and take medications with their consent.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Jain Tushar Pukharaj
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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