Stomach bug symptoms lasting 12 hours

Vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, cramps and reduced appetite can occur with gastroenteritis. Food-related illness and other abdominal conditions can cause a similar early pattern, so watch how symptoms develop.

Feeling better quickly is reassuring when you can drink, pass urine and gradually resume food. It does not prove that an infection has cleared, and diarrhoea or appetite changes may outlast vomiting.

Gastroenteritis commonly presents with diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort and sometimes fever. Dehydration can present with thirst, a dry mouth, dark or infrequent urine, dizziness and unusual sleepiness.

Take frequent small sips rather than a large drink at once if nausea persists. An oral rehydration solution can replace both fluid and salts; a pharmacist can advise on a suitable product and preparation.

Eat when you feel able, choosing manageable portions without forcing a restrictive diet. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, clean contaminated surfaces, avoid preparing food for others while unwell, and do not share towels.

Get prompt medical advice if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine, feel faint, have blood in vomit or stool, develop persistent fever, or have abdominal pain that is severe, localised or worsening.

Babies, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with a weakened immune system or significant long-term illness can become unwell more quickly and merit earlier advice. Seek emergency care for collapse, confusion, severe breathing difficulty or a rigid, very painful abdomen.

Report when vomiting and diarrhoea began, whether anyone else who ate the same food is ill, recent travel, urine output, fever, blood, pain location and medicines. Ask whether you need testing or a tailored rehydration plan.