It’s the question every parent asks themselves at some point: “Does my child need to go to the doctor for this?”
When it comes to stomach bugs, the symptoms are often concerning. They may start suddenly or get more intense very quickly. In kids, there are a few hallmark signs that it’s time for a children’s doctor visit.
Your concern as a parent is normal. Here’s what you need to know about your child’s stomach bug, including when to seek professional care.
What Is a “Stomach Bug”? Breaking Down Viral Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
You’ve probably heard other parents refer to their children’s symptoms as “a stomach bug.” In most cases, this means a child has viral gastroenteritis.
Several illnesses share symptoms with viral gastroenteritis. Parents often get confused because different viruses can be behind gastroenteritis infections, but the symptoms remain the same.
For informational purposes, “stomach bug,” “stomach flu,” and “viral gastroenteritis” are interchangeable.
What Causes Viral Gastroenteritis and Why Seeing a Primary Care Doctor is Important
Gastroenteritis is a medical term that refers to inflammation and irritation of the stomach and intestines. This swelling and discomfort cause the gastrointestinal symptoms that children and adults experience.
In children, viral gastroenteritis often starts with a highly contagious virus. Rotavirus is the most common culprit in children, but norovirus and intestinal adenovirus can also cause symptoms.
Kids can get viral infections from other kids or adults (airborne or through bodily fluids), shared surfaces, and contaminated food and water. Unfortunately, viruses tend to spread quickly among children, especially in group settings like schools and daycares.
A primary care children’s doctor can help confirm the diagnosis, rule out more serious conditions, and guide parents on how to manage dehydration and other symptoms safely while the illness runs its course.
It’s Important to Note That The Stomach Flu Is Not Influenza
The names can be misleading. The “stomach flu” is not caused by the influenza virus, which causes upper respiratory symptoms in children. Flu testing and treatments won’t work for viral gastroenteritis.
Common Stomach Flu Symptoms in Children
It’s always difficult to watch your child go through an illness. Stomach flu symptoms often worry parents, but many of them are normal and will pass.
Your child may experience:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue and lethargy (feeling generally unwell)
- Loss of appetite
These symptoms are all normal and expected when a child comes down with a stomach bug.
You know your child best. If something doesn’t seem right or you’re unable to manage symptoms at home, it’s time to see a children’s doctor.
Abnormal Stomach Bug Symptoms and When to Visit a Children’s Doctor
As a parent, you might wonder when it’s time to get professional help with your child’s illness. Most cases of pediatric stomach flu pass on their own without complications.
However, some stomach flu symptoms can cause secondary problems. One of the most common complications that requires medical treatment is dehydration.
Vomiting and Diarrhea for Over 24 Hours
If your child’s vomiting and diarrhea haven’t slowed down or stopped in over 24 hours, it’s time for a doctor’s visit. This is a sign that their body is having trouble fighting the illness. In rare cases, it might mean they have a different sickness that requires medical treatment.
Severe Dehydration From Loss of Fluids
Viral gastroenteritis can lead to dehydration through loss of fluids and electrolytes. If a child is vomiting and experiencing diarrhea, they might not be able to keep down the fluids they need.
Signs of dehydration in children include:
- Dry lips
- Extreme fatigue
- Infrequent urination (no wet diapers for 6–8 hours in babies)
- Sunken-in skin and eyes
In these cases, seeing a doctor is warranted. Professionals can administer IVs to ensure your child gets the hydration they need to recover.
Unbearable Stomach Pain
The stomach flu does cause abdominal pain and cramping. However, if your child can’t tolerate the pain, they need a professional evaluation. Severe, persistent abdominal pain may indicate a more serious problem.
Blood in Stool
It’s not normal for children to have bloody diarrhea or vomit, even with viral gastroenteritis. If your child has this symptom, they need to see a children’s doctor to rule out anything serious.
Confusion or Unconsciousness
If your child is persistently confused about where they are or what’s going on, they should see a doctor. Confusion can be a symptom of severe dehydration.
Some kids lose consciousness when they’ve been without fluids for too long. Any loss of consciousness is a medical emergency. Dial 911 immediately to seek help.
Treatments and At-Home Steps to Help Your Child Feel Better
Unfortunately, there are no medical treatments that cure viral gastroenteritis. If your little one comes down with the stomach flu, they need to stay home and get plenty of rest and fluids.
Here’s what you can do to help your child feel better faster and avoid a trip to a children’s doctor.
Get Lots of Rest
Everyone needs rest when they’re sick, but children are especially vulnerable to fatigue. Encourage your child to stay comfortable in bed or on the couch until they feel better.
If they’re having a hard time with this, provide some relaxing activities they can do to keep their mind busy.
Drink Clear Fluids With Electrolytes
Water is the best hydrator, but your child may need an electrolyte drink (like Pedialyte) to replenish lost fluids. Anything clear and thin, like broth, can help.
Pedialyte popsicles are a great motivator for children to get more fluids in when they’re sick.
Eat Small, Bland Snacks to Manage Nausea
Avoid any overly heavy, sweet, rich, or spicy foods while they’re sick. Stick to bland options (like the BRAT diet) and serve small portions until they’re feeling better. Having small snacks in their stomach can help with nausea once the worst of the vomiting has passed.
Sip Ginger Ale or Other Carbonated Drinks
Ginger ale made with real ginger helps settle children’s stomachs, especially during the recovery phase. If you don’t have ginger ale, try other non-caffeinated carbonated drinks, like Sprite or sparkling water.
See a Children’s Doctor to Stay on Top of Your Child’s Health
At Newport Children’s Medical Group, we provide comprehensive pediatric care. We’re here to help you monitor your child’s well-being and address health problems before they start.
Are you concerned about your child’s breathing, sleep, or other respiratory issues? See a pediatric pulmonologist at Newport Children’s Medical Group today!