Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea—these unpleasant symptoms can hit you out of nowhere, leaving you wondering: is it a stomach bug or food poisoning? Although the symptoms of both conditions overlap, their causes and treatments are quite different. Understanding the differences can help you manage your symptoms effectively and decide when to seek professional care.

At AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts, we’re here to help you feel better fast. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between a stomach bug and food poisoning, discuss symptoms to watch for, and share when to visit urgent care for relief.

What Is a Stomach Bug?

The stomach bug, or viral gastroenteritis, is an infection of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus. Common viruses that lead to gastroenteritis include:

• Norovirus (the most common cause).
• Rotavirus (especially in children).
• Adenovirus and astrovirus (less common).

These viruses are highly contagious and can spread through:

• Contact with infected individuals.
• Consuming contaminated food or water.
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then your mouth.

Symptoms of a Stomach Bug

Symptoms typically appear 1–3 days after exposure to the virus and may include:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea (watery, non-bloody).
• Stomach cramps.
• Low-grade fever.
• Headache or body aches.

Most stomach bugs resolve independently within 1–3 days, though some cases may last up to a week.

What Is Food Poisoning?

Food poisoning occurs when you consume food or beverages contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. Common causes of food poisoning include:

• Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, Listeria.
• Viruses: Norovirus (yes, it can cause both stomach bugs and food poisoning).
• Parasites: Giardia or Toxoplasma.
• Toxins: These are caused by poorly stored food, like Staphylococcus aureus or Clostridium botulinum.

Food poisoning often occurs after eating:

• Undercooked or raw meat, poultry, or eggs.
• Unwashed fruits and vegetables.
• Contaminated dairy products.
• Leftovers stored improperly or for too long.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning

Symptoms of food poisoning often appear within hours to a day after eating contaminated food, but in some cases, it can take days. Symptoms may include:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea (may contain blood or mucus in severe cases).
• Stomach pain and cramping.
• Fever (depending on the type of contamination).
• Fatigue and muscle aches.

Food poisoning can last from a few hours to several days, depending on the severity and cause.

How to Tell the Difference Between a Stomach Bug and Food Poisoning

Although the symptoms of a stomach bug and food poisoning overlap, there are key differences that can help you identify the cause:

Factor	Stomach Bug	Food Poisoning
Cause	Viral infection (e.g., norovirus)	Bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins
Onset of Symptoms	1–3 days after exposure	A few hours to a day after eating
Duration	1–3 days (up to a week sometimes)	Hours to several days
Fever	Low-grade (common)	It may or may not occur
Bloody Stool (Rare)	Possible (especially with E. coli)
Vomiting	Common, often severe initially

If you’re still unsure whether you have a stomach bug or food poisoning, visiting AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts can help you get answers and relief.

At-home care for a Stomach Bug or Food Poisoning

For mild cases of a stomach bug or food poisoning, at-home care can help you recover.

Stay Hydrated

Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it’s essential to replenish fluids:

• Drink water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte.
• Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol, which can worsen dehydration.

Rest Your Stomach

• Start with a clear-liquid diet and gradually reintroduce bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet).
• Avoid spicy, greasy, or dairy-based foods until symptoms improve.

Manage Symptoms

• Take over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen for fever or pain.
• For diarrhea, you can consider loperamide (Imodium) unless you suspect a bacterial infection (diarrhea is the body’s way of flushing out harmful bacteria).

When to Seek Medical Care

While most cases of a stomach bug or food poisoning resolve independently, specific symptoms require medical attention.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts if You Experience:

• Severe Dehydration Symptoms: Dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine, or little to no urination.
• Bloody Stool or Vomit: This could indicate a more serious infection.
• High Fever: Especially above 102°F (38.8°C).
• Prolonged Symptoms: Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days or vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down.
• Severe Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain or tenderness that doesn’t improve.

At AFC Urgent Care, our experienced providers can quickly assess your condition, perform tests if necessary, and provide tailored treatment to help you recover.

How AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts Can Help

At AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts, we provide comprehensive care for stomach-related illnesses, including bugs and food poisoning. Our services include:

• Rapid Testing: On-site lab testing to diagnose bacterial infections, dehydration, or other complications.
• Symptom Management: IV fluids for dehydration, anti-nausea medications, and other treatments to alleviate discomfort.
• Timely Care: Walk-in services mean you can get help when needed—no appointment is required.

Please find your nearest AFC location and learn more about our services here.

While the stomach bug and food poisoning can make you miserable, knowing the differences can help you manage symptoms and seek appropriate care. Whether it’s a viral infection or something you ate, AFC Urgent Care Massachusetts provides fast, effective relief. Don’t let your symptoms linger—visit us today for expert care and personalized treatment.