Stomach bug for two weeks: what to know

Stomach-bug symptoms continuing for two weeks need prompt medical assessment because prolonged diarrhoea or vomiting is not typical recovery. You may still have gastroenteritis, but another infection, medication effect, food intolerance or bowel condition could be contributing. The longer symptoms continue, the more important hydration and checking for complications become.

A stomach infection can leave the bowel unsettled, yet persistent symptoms may also mean the original illness has not cleared or was not the only cause. Ongoing nausea, abdominal pain, fever, diarrhoea or loss of appetite can reduce drinking and eating. Rotavirus is one possible cause, while dehydration is a complication rather than an explanation for every prolonged illness. Blood or black stool, nighttime diarrhoea, marked fatigue or unintended weight change should be described clearly to the clinician.

Arrange an appointment promptly and write down when symptoms began, how often you pass stool or vomit, what it looks like, your fluid intake and how often you urinate. Include recent travel, untreated water, unusual foods, sick contacts, antibiotics and all regular medicines. Sip fluids often and use an oral rehydration drink if appropriate. Eat little and often as tolerated. Avoid alcohol and do not take antibiotics or repeated anti-diarrhoeal medicines without professional advice.

Go to urgent care for inability to keep fluids down, very little urine, faintness, confusion, severe weakness, blood or black stool, severe abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen or persistent fever. Emergency help is needed if you collapse, vomit blood or become difficult to wake. Children, older adults, pregnant people and people with kidney, heart or immune conditions may deteriorate sooner and should not wait for symptoms to become severe.

Could this still be gastroenteritis, or should another cause be investigated? Do I need stool, blood or other tests? How can I maintain fluids and nutrition safely? Which medicines should I avoid, and what symptoms require emergency care?