Nausea and vomiting accompanied by a fever of
37.8°C (100°F) 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
37.8°C (100°F) 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.