Food Poisoning, Indigestion, or the Stomach Flu? How to Tell the Difference

An upset stomach, nausea, and frequent trips to the bathroom are unwelcome symptoms at any time, but they can be especially disruptive during the holiday season. When your digestive system is in distress, it isn’t always easy to know what’s causing the turmoil. Is it the rich food you ate, a contagious bug, or something more serious? 

In this month’s blog, Dr. Manzoor Kasi of Palm Desert Urgent Care in Palm Desert, California, explains the differences between indigestion, the stomach flu, and food poisoning so you can get the appropriate care.

Understanding indigestion

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, isn’t a disease itself but rather a symptom of another issue. It often occurs after eating and can be triggered by overeating, consuming spicy or fatty foods, or eating too quickly.

The discomfort of indigestion is typically caused by stomach acid coming into contact with the sensitive lining of your digestive system. Common triggers include certain foods and drinks, such as fried or greasy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages. Stress and some medications can also lead to indigestion.

Telltale symptoms of indigestion include:

• A burning sensation in the upper abdomen
• Bloating
• Belching
• Feeling full early in a meal.

Symptoms usually appear shortly after eating and are typically mild, resolving on their own within a few hours.

Stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis)

Despite its name, the influenza virus doesn't cause stomach flu. It’s an intestinal infection caused by viruses such as norovirus or rotavirus.

The stomach flu is highly contagious and spreads through contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms typically develop 12 to 48 hours after exposure. This delayed onset is a key difference from indigestion or some forms of food poisoning.

Key symptoms of the stomach flu:

• Watery diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps

You might also experience a low-grade fever, headache, and general body aches, which are less frequent with indigestion.

Food poisoning

Food poisoning occurs when you consume food contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The onset and severity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the contaminant.

Unlike the stomach flu, symptoms of food poisoning can appear very quickly, sometimes within 30 minutes to a few hours of eating the contaminated food. This rapid onset is a strong indicator that your illness is food-related.

Food poisoning symptoms often overlap with the stomach flu, but can be more severe. 

Symptoms to watch for:

• Intense vomiting
• Diarrhea 

Some types of food poisoning, particularly those caused by bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella, can result in bloody diarrhea. A high fever is also more common with food poisoning than with the stomach flu.

When to seek medical care

While you can manage most cases of an upset stomach at home with rest and hydration, specific symptoms warrant a visit to our office. Dehydration is the most common complication; therefore, it’s essential to drink plenty of fluids.

You should seek medical attention if you suffer any of the following:

• Severe dehydration, such as little to no urination, extreme thirst, or dizziness
• A high fever (over 102°F)
• Bloody diarrhea or vomit
• Diarrhea that lasts for more than three days
• Inability to keep liquids down because of frequent vomiting

If you’re experiencing severe or persistent stomach symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Call Palm Desert Urgent Care to schedule your annual physical or use our online booking feature today.