Does vomiting and diarrhea indicate norovirus infection?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing severe vomiting and diarrhea for the past 36 hours and have been unable to keep anything down, including sips of water. I am feeling extremely weak and dizzy. Yesterday, my child's daycare reported a norovirus outbreak, and my three-year-old got sick before me. What concerns me most is the presence of bright red streaks in my vomit, something I have never experienced before. The stomach pain is intense and sharp, like a knife. Additionally, I have noticed my heart racing and occasional confusion. I take Lithium for bipolar disorder but have been unable to keep my medication down for two days. Could this just be a typical norovirus infection, or is it something more serious? When should I consider going to the ER (emergency room)?

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Considering your symptoms and recent contact with your child, this appears to be a typical norovirus infection. Gastrointestinal infections can sometimes lead to complications such as dehydration and lethargy. The presence of blood in your vomit could be due to excessive strain from vomiting. Please check the color of the blood. If it is bright red, it may be caused by straining. However, if it appears dark or has a coffee-ground texture, further evaluation is necessary. Dehydration can become serious if you are unable to maintain your fluid intake. Severe dehydration can present with several warning signs, including lethargy or reduced activity, pale and sunken eyes, cold extremities, rapid breathing, and heart rate, and changes in mood such as irritability, drowsiness, or confusion. Additionally, dark yellow urine, infrequent urination, and decreased skin elasticity may indicate significant fluid loss.

To manage dehydration, it is essential to drink oral rehydration solution (ORS) and increase fluid intake while avoiding sugary beverages. Medications like Ondansetron can help control vomiting, while Loperamide (Imodium) may be used to manage diarrhea. For stomach pain, antispasmodics such as Cyclopam, Tramadol, or Diclofenac can provide relief. It is advisable to consume easily digestible foods like rice, soups, toast, and fruits, along with yogurt, to help restore gut flora. Additionally, consult your psychiatrist regarding any missed Lithium doses.

I hope this information helps. If you have further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.