Gastroenterologist Questions Gastroenterologist

Stomach bug?

I keep getting the same stomach bug that gets worse every time. I try my best to rest and drink fluid but I keep getting it and I don't know why.

Male | 20 years old

5 Answers

If you keep getting a stomach bug that seems to worsen with time, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. Here are some possibilities to consider:

1. **Recurrent Infections:** Stomach bugs can be caused by various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. If you're experiencing repeated episodes of gastrointestinal symptoms, it's essential to identify the specific cause through medical evaluation.

2. **Food Sensitivities or Allergies:** Some individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to certain foods that can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms. Identifying and avoiding problem foods can help manage these issues.

3. **Underlying Medical Conditions:** Gastrointestinal symptoms can be associated with underlying medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or other gastrointestinal disorders. These conditions often require medical diagnosis and management.

4. **Hydration and Nutrition:** It's important to stay hydrated and maintain adequate nutrition, especially if you're experiencing repeated episodes of vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration and malnutrition can worsen symptoms.

5. **Hand Hygiene:** Frequent handwashing and proper hygiene can help reduce the risk of infection, particularly when it comes to viral and bacterial stomach bugs. Make sure you're practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the spread of pathogens.

6. **Travel and Food Safety:** If you've been traveling to areas with different food and water sources, you may have encountered different pathogens. Be cautious about food and water safety when traveling.

7. **Medications:** Certain medications can irritate the stomach lining or cause gastrointestinal symptoms as side effects. If you're taking any medications, consult your healthcare provider to discuss potential associations.

It's crucial to see a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any patterns or triggers you've noticed. They can perform tests, such as stool cultures or blood tests, and conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your recurrent stomach issues. Based on their findings, they can provide appropriate treatment or recommendations for managing and preventing future episodes.

In the meantime, focus on staying hydrated, following a bland diet if tolerated, and avoiding any potential trigger foods. Keep track of your symptoms, including their onset, duration, and any specific foods or activities that seem to precede them. This information can be valuable when discussing your condition with a healthcare provider.
I need to know what the symptoms are. It's not necessarily a stomach bug. When you see a doctor, the first step is taking a history where you describe the symptoms. Then a physical exam is done. This is the most appropriate way to make a diagnosis or determine if testing is needed.
If you have recurrent symptoms it may not be a “stomach bug” at all. You
have to see your doctor.
Get tested for Helicobacter pylori infection.

What bug is it? Why don’t you see a physician and find out since it keeps coming back to you?