flu with nausea

Overview

The flu (influenza) is a common viral infection. It usually causes fever, cough, and body aches, but some people also feel sick to their stomach, have nausea, or vomit. This is often called 'flu with nausea.'

Yes, the flu is very common. Many people with the flu have mild stomach upset, nausea, or vomiting during the illness.

Anyone can get the flu, but nausea and vomiting are more common in children. Older adults, pregnant people, and people with long-term health conditions may get sicker from the flu.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Fever or feeling feverish
• Body aches and muscle pain
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness
• Sore throat and cough
• Nausea, vomiting, and sometimes belly pain
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms in children

• Vomiting more often than adults
• Diarrhea
• High fever
• Fussiness or not wanting to eat or drink
• Acting more tired or less playful than usual

Symptoms in older adults

• Weakness and lingering fatigue
• Dizziness or trouble standing
• Less fever than younger adults
• Confusion or unusual sleepiness
• Dehydration from not drinking enough

Causes

Main causes

• Influenza A and influenza B viruses cause the flu.
• The virus spreads through droplets when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks.
• Touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after touching a contaminated surface can also spread the virus.
• Nausea and vomiting happen because the immune system reacts strongly and the stomach and gut may also be irritated.

Risk factors

• Being under age 5, especially under 2
• Being age 65 or older
• Being pregnant or recently pregnant
• Living in crowded places such as dorms, nursing homes, or military barracks
• Having asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or a weakened immune system

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your local emergency number if you have any of the emergency warning signs listed above.
• Seek same-day care if you are in a high-risk group and start feeling very sick.
• If you wake up feeling confused, cannot keep fluids down for more than 24 hours, or are dizzy when standing, get medical help right away.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Contact your healthcare provider if your fever stays high for more than three days.
• If you have a chronic condition and think you have the flu, ask whether you should be seen or monitored.
• If you are pregnant, or caring for a young child who seems unusually tired, talk to a doctor.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider usually diagnoses the flu by asking about your symptoms and doing a physical exam. In some cases, especially if you are at high risk, they may swab your nose to confirm the virus.

Tests that may be done

• Rapid influenza test using a nasal or throat swab (results in minutes or hours)
• PCR test, which is more sensitive and done in a lab

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor may check your temperature, heart rate, and breathing. They may ask about vomiting, how much fluid you are drinking, and whether you have any high-risk health conditions.

Treatment

Most people recover from the flu without needing specific medical treatment. The main goals are to rest, keep drinking fluids, and let your body fight the virus.

Self-care at home

• Rest in bed and sleep as much as you need.
• Sip water, clear broth, or an oral rehydration drink throughout the day.
• Eat small, bland meals like toast, rice, or bananas if you feel like eating.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which can dehydrate you.
• Use a cool washcloth on your forehead if you feel feverish.
• Stay home from work or school until your fever has been gone for at least 24 hours.

Medical treatments

For some people — especially those at high risk of complications — a doctor may prescribe an antiviral medicine to help shorten the illness and make symptoms less severe. These are prescription medications, so talk to your healthcare provider. Never take antibiotics for the flu because they only fight bacteria.

Living with this condition

Give your body time to heal. Keep a bottle of water on your nightstand and take small sips often. When you feel tired, rest. When you feel hungry, eat something light. Most people feel much better within a week or two.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash your hands often to avoid passing the virus to others.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
• Use a separate towel and cup while you are sick.
• Avoid close contact with others until you are better.

Diet and exercise

Drink fluids often to replace what you lose from vomiting or sweating. Once you feel better, start slowly with gentle activities like walking. Avoid intense exercise until your fever has completely gone and you are well hydrated.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being sick can make you feel lonely, worried, or low, especially when you have nausea and cannot do normal activities. It is okay to feel that way. Try relaxing breathing, watching a comfort show, or calling a friend. If you feel very overwhelmed or hopeless, reach out to a mental health crisis support line in your area.

Prevention

Yes, there are simple steps that lower your chances of getting the flu: get vaccinated each year, wash your hands, avoid touching your face, and steer clear of people who are sick.

Vaccines

A yearly flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. It cannot always prevent the flu, but it makes illness milder and reduces the risk of serious complications.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration from not being able to keep fluids down
• Pneumonia, an infection in your lungs
• Worsening of chronic health conditions like asthma or heart disease
• Ear infections or sinus infections, especially in children
• Rarely, serious inflammation of the heart or brain

Long-term outlook

With rest, fluids, and time, most people who get the flu with nausea feel much better within one to two weeks. Taking the flu vaccine every year and seeking early medical advice if you are high risk gives you the best chance of a full and smooth recovery.

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