Are you feeling under the weather? Have you felt like your stomach has experienced better days?

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Lake Oswego wants you to know how to tell if your tummy trouble is pointing to a stomach virus or food poisoning—and just how long the issue might last.

What Is the Difference Between a Stomach Virus and Food Poisoning?

While there might seem to be a lot of similarities between the stomach virus and food poisoning, there are some things you can look for when it comes to how to tell the difference between the two.

For instance, the onset of symptoms of food poisoning seems to hit a lot faster than the symptoms of a stomach virus. In addition, a stomach virus can last a lot longer than food poisoning, as food poisoning usually lasts only a day or two. Unfortunately, the symptoms of a stomach virus can last up to 10 days.

Symptoms of a Stomach Virus

• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Joint aches
• Muscle aches

Is a Stomach Virus Contagious?

Unfortunately, a stomach virus is extremely contagious. A person diagnosed with a stomach virus can be contagious from a few days to a few weeks.

Therefore, it is extremely important to stay away from people if you have been diagnosed with a stomach bug.

Treatment for a Stomach Virus

• Over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication
• Anti-nausea medications such as promethazine
• Plenty of rest
• Fluids to stay hydrated
• Ice chips

Do you think you might have a stomach virus? Visit AFC Urgent Care Lake Oswego today for a medical evaluation and treatment plan!