Some Flu-Like Symptoms, Some Cold-Like Symptoms

[DStreet81]

Hi there. Starting on 3AM last Friday, I started having symptoms of what I thought was the flu going around. Diarrhea, vomiting, fever (101.5), muscle aches (mild to severe), sweats and chills, stiffness, weakness, some dizziness, no appetite. I automatically assumed it was the influenza virus but in almost everywhere I read, it says a cough and/or sore throat almost always follow. I've had neither, nor have I had any chest pain.

It's now Monday and it seems that the only symptoms remaining are muscle ache, weakness and I've since gained my appetite back and I'm eating light foods, but after eating it continues to churn. I'm also currently having fairly severe pain in the muscles in my upper left arm, the left side of my neck under my chin and the left side of my lower jaw. These muscle pains prevent me from focusing on anything or sleeping.

Is it possible that I have neither the flu nor a cold? I can't seem to find a match for my symptoms.

[DStreet81]

Thank you for your reply. When I started feeling ill on Friday in the AM, I thought it was food poisoning or something similar. The night prior, I went out to a restaurant and the illness set in very quickly. I know that the flu usually has some warning signs but I had absolutely none. Prior to Friday, I felt perfectly fine. Someone else suggested the BRAT diet as well, so I will put that to use.

Thanks for your assistance! I'm a little more at ease now.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Your symptoms are suggestive of gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis can be produced from
viral,bacterial and parasitic infections, contaminated food or water, food poisoning, use of harsh laxatives, change in bacteria that normally live in the intestinal tract, chemical toxins in certain plants, seafood, or contaminated food, and heavy metal poisoning.

Take adequate fluids throughout the day. The BRAT diet (ie, bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) or soft easily digestible semisolid diet can also be taken. However, many are self-limited and do not require therapy. Antimicrobial therapy is indicated for some bacterial gastroenteritis infections.The specific antibiotics are taken for specific bacteria after stool culture.

As your symptoms are improving,so it looks like a viral infection.Muscle aches and fatigue are very common in them.It is usually self limiting.Howebver if the symptoms persist then pls consult a physician.

Hope it helps.Take care and regards.