The stomach flu is an infection of the stomach or intestines, but influenza is an infection of the nose, throat, or lungs. Your symptoms can help you determine which one you have.

The flu and stomach flu are two distinctly different conditions. What we commonly refer to as the “flu” is an infection that affects your nose, throat, or lungs. The stomach flu involves an infection in your stomach or intestines.

These conditions carry different symptoms and require different treatments.

Read on to learn more about the key differences between influenza and stomach flu.

The stomach flu is another name for any type of stomach virus. While there are many different types of these viruses that can affect the stomach and intestines, two common ones include norovirus and rotavirus.

  • nausea and vomiting
  • abdominal pain
  • diarrhea

You may also experience a slight fever, headache, or other body aches. Symptoms of the stomach flu generally clear up in 1 to 3 days. However, you may still be contagious for a few days after that.

Influenza is a respiratory infection that typically affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It frequently spreads between people when someone coughs or sneezes.

Unlike the stomach flu, getting a yearly vaccination can help to reduce your chances of getting influenza.

  • fever or chills
  • a sore throat
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • body aches
  • coughing
  • headaches
  • fatigue

Some people will experience vomiting or diarrhea with influenza. However, this is more rare and most likely to occur in children.

Both the stomach flu and influenza are caused by viruses. They’re easily spread from person to person, and good hygiene is an important tool in preventing their spread.

While some symptoms like fevers and headaches may overlap, the stomach flu and influenza generally have different types of discomfort.

If you have influenza, you’ll typically have difficulty breathing and smelling. On the other hand, gastrointestinal distress is a key symptom of the stomach flu.

Both influenza and the stomach flu are highly contagious and can be spread through contact with another person with the infection. They may also spread through contact with infected surfaces and foods.

If you’re unsure about the cause of your symptoms, your doctor can perform tests to confirm a diagnosis. Since many people recover fairly quickly and do not need to go to the doctor, you may not be formally diagnosed with either condition.

Both the stomach flu and influenza are viral infections. This means antibiotics will not be effective in treating them. However, your doctor can prescribe antiviral medication if you have a high risk of complications.

During the recovery process, it’s important to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. It’s also a good idea to stay home so you don’t spread the infection to anyone else.

In general, for both the stomach flu and influenza, it’s important to treat any symptoms that may be causing you distress. This may involve over-the-counter medications. In some more serious cases, your doctor may recommend prescription medications to help with nausea or reduce coughing.

It’s important to be mindful of spreading the stomach flu or influenza even after you begin to feel better as you may still be contagious. Extra focus on good hygiene even after your symptoms are diminishing can protect those around you.

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Most people recover from the stomach flu in a few days. In many cases, it can be managed at home with rest and hydration.

Symptoms of influenza may last a week or so, and your cough may continue to linger for several weeks. Some people with influenza may develop pneumonia. Those with chronic medical conditions may also experience worsening symptoms.

The risk of more serious complications from the stomach flu and influenza is higher for:

  • children under 5
  • adults over the age of 65
  • those with chronic illnesses
  • individuals receiving chemotherapy

You should contact a doctor if:

  • your symptoms become severe or persist for a prolonged period of time
  • you have trouble breathing
  • you’re becoming dehydrated
  • you notice blood in your vomit or stools
  • you have another condition and are at high risk

While influenza is an infection of the nose, throat, or lungs, the stomach flu affects the stomach or intestines. When determining which condition you have, it’s important to think about the symptoms you’re experiencing.

If you’re having severe symptoms or your symptoms persist for a prolonged period, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about whether you have influenza or the stomach flu. Your doctor can also help you with a diagnosis if you’re not sure what’s wrong.