During the winter season, there are many different illnesses that circulate. This can make it difficult to identify the cause of your symptoms and know when to seek medical care. Many confuse the flu and the stomach flu, but these two illnesses are caused by different viruses and they both affect the body in distinct ways. The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, leading to symptoms like fever, cough, body aches, and fatigue. On the other hand, stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, is a digestive system infection that causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
Understanding the differences between these two illnesses can help with proper treatment, prevention, and recovery. If you’re feeling sick, get same-day illness diagnosis in Bound Brook, NJ by walking into AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook! We’re open 7 days a week and accept walk-in patients.
Flu Symptoms vs Stomach Flu Symptoms
The flu and stomach flu may sound similar due to their names, but they are completely different illnesses. The flu is caused by the influenza virus and causes upper respiratory-related symptoms such as coughing, congestion, sore throat, and a fever. Flu symptoms typically develop suddenly and normally last about a week.
The stomach flu is also a viral infection, however, it primarily affects your stomach and gastrointestinal system. Symptoms are intense and can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and lack of appetite. The stomach flu usually only lasts 24 to 48 hours before symptoms resolve.
Treatment Options
One big difference between the flu and the stomach flu is the way that you treat them. Since different viruses cause the flu and stomach flu, their treatments also differ. Treatment for the flu includes antiviral medications such as Tamiflu to reduce symptoms, rest to allow your body to recover, at-home care to manage symptoms such as congestion and a cough, and using over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms such as a fever.
For the stomach flu, symptom management through staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest are key to a quick recovery. In both the case of the flu and the stomach flu, the illnesses will resolve on their own. However, it is important to stay hydrated and monitor your symptoms for signs of dehydration or secondary infections.
When to Seek Medical Care
Although they are different illnesses, both the flu and stomach flu can be managed at home with rest and hydration in most cases. However, there are times when seeking urgent care is necessary. Medical attention is crucial if you experience severe symptoms like persistent high fever or severe dehydration. Seeking urgent medical help can prevent serious complications, ensuring a faster and safer recovery.
Visit AFC Bound Brook for Walk-In Illness Treatment in Bound Brook, NJ
If you’re experiencing illness symptoms and are in search of rapid relief, AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook can help. Our walk-in urgent care clinic is open 7 days a week, including on weekends, and we accept walk-in patients. Our medical providers are board-certified and trained to quickly and accurately diagnose the cause of your symptoms and treat it effectively. We offer the same level of care for non-life-threatening illnesses as the ER and we work with most medical insurance providers to keep our care affordable. Walk into the clinic today!
