Have you ever heard of the ‘stomach flu’? This condition is caused by a viral infection called norovirus. It can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping, fevers, and more. If you or someone in your household has norovirus, you may be wondering how long you can expect the symptoms to last and whether you should seek medical care. Norovirus symptoms can be severe, but they typically resolve without medical treatment within 24 hours. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms of norovirus and tips for preventing the spread of norovirus this winter.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of norovirus, AFC Urgent Care Farmington can help. Our walk-in urgent care clinic offers same-day norovirus symptom treatment on a walk-in basis. If you live in Farmington, NM, and are in need of rapid illness symptom relief, you can count on AFC Farmington. Walk into the clinic today!
Symptoms of Norovirus
Norovirus is a viral infection that is sometimes referred to as the ‘stomach flu’. While norovirus is a viral infection like the flu, the two are not directly related. The flu causes severe illness including symptoms like a fever, congestion, cough, and other upper respiratory symptoms. Norovirus primarily affects the gastrointestinal system which includes the stomach and bowels. As a result, norovirus symptoms include the following:
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
- Fatigue
How Long Do Norovirus Symptoms Last
Norovirus symptoms can be intense. Because norovirus is caused by a viral infection, there is not a medication available to speed up the recovery time. Most norovirus cases are very short-lived and only last about 24 hours. If your symptoms are severe, such as a fever higher than 105℉, you should seek medical care. You should also seek medical care if your symptoms last more than a day, because this could suggest a more severe infection.
Norovirus Treatment
Viral infections like norovirus cannot be treated using medications. Your body is able to fight off the infection on its own. Treatment usually involves managing and treating symptoms. Staying hydrated is key to ensuring a swift recovery. Dehydration can lead to further complications and prolong your recovery time. Getting plenty of rest will also ensure that your immune system has the energy it needs to fight off the virus. For severe symptoms, medical support with IV fluids and anti-nausea medications may be necessary. Young children, adults over the age of 65 and anyone with a compromised immune system should always seek medical care to prevent complications from occurring.
Visit AFC Farmington for Norovirus Symptom Treatment in Farmington, NM
Norovirus symptoms can be intense, but they typically resolve on their own within 24 hours of appearing. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, AFC Urgent Care Farmington can help. Our team of board-certified medical providers is available to provide patients near Farmington, NM with same-day care on a walk-in basis. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care for self-paying patients. If you’re in need of rapid illness care, walk into AFC Farmington today!
