What is the treatment for recurring stomach flu?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am currently traveling, and I have encountered my second case of stomach flu in two weeks. The first episode was severe, marked by intense cramping and diarrhea, which resolved itself in five to six days. The second case, which began a week and a half later, is less intense with reduced cramping and no diarrhea, but I am experiencing bloating, discomfort, and constant cramping pain. I visited a local pharmacy and obtained Neofortan (160) capsules, taking the full course. It has been five days since then, and I have not had a bowel movement in three days. While I am feeling better than before, my stomach still feels somewhat crampy and bloated.

Should I seek assistance at a clinic or return to a pharmacy? I suspect this is a foodborne illness, as I have not experienced gastrointestinal issues before, and the symptoms began upon arriving in the new country. I have five more weeks in my current location. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

Yes, this appears to be diet-associated enterocolitis, leading to diarrhea initially and now causing stomach issues, including bloating and abdominal cramps. To address this, I suggest you incorporate yogurt into your diet as a natural source of probiotics (beneficial bacteria). Consult with a local pharmacy to inquire about probiotic capsules or sachets. Take them once daily for one to two weeks as they can replace harmful bacteria in the gut with beneficial ones, improving your symptoms. Be mindful of your diet while traveling, and avoid reheated meals. Ensure the safety of your water source, or carry your own boiled water.

If available, consider Rifaximin 550 mg tablets. This is an excellent medicine for traveler's diarrhea or bloating. Take one tablet after breakfast and dinner for five to seven days. Rifaximin is gut-specific, meaning it will not be absorbed into the bloodstream like typical antibiotics. Neofortan (Camylofin and Diclofenac) is appropriate as an anti-spasmodic medicine to alleviate cramps and abdominal pain. It does not address sub-acute gut infections, which should be treated with probiotics and, if available, Rifaximin.

Wishing you excellent health.

Thank you.