stomach upset and fever - #20988
I am really worried because for the last couple of days, I’ve been dealing with a bad stomach upset and fever, and it's just getting worse. It all started after I ate at this new restaurant in town. I thought the food was fine, but then a few hours later, I felt this horrible tightness in my stomach, like it was cramping, and I started feeling feverish, like headaches and aches all over. I didn’t sleep well, and the next day, I woke up with chills and more stomach upset. The fever kind of comes and goes, but the upset stomach is constant and makes it hard to eat anything. I’ve tried some over-the-counter meds, but is that enough?? I can't tell if this stomach upset and fever is just some kind of food poisoning or something worse. I’m also feeling kinda light-headed, which is freaking me out. Should I go to urgent care, or just ride this out?! Anyone else experience a stomach upset and fever like this? How long did it take to go away? I'm really hoping it's nothing serious, but I need some advice before I make any decisions.
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Doctors' responses
Based on your symptoms, it seems likely that you may be experiencing food poisoning or a gastrointestinal infection, especially considering the timing with eating at a new restaurant. These symptoms can include stomach cramps, fever, chills, and the light-headed feeling you mentioned. In many cases, these conditions resolve on their own within a few days; however, the fact that your symptoms are worsening and you’re experiencing light-headedness could indicate a need for medical attention. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, as fever and gastrointestinal issues can lead to dehydration, which might be part of why you’re feeling light-headed. If you haven’t already, consider taking small sips of water or an electrolyte solution, and try to rest as much as possible. Avoid solid foods until you feel a bit better, opting for bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast or rice if you can tolerate them. Over-the-counter medications that you’ve tried might help with symptoms but won’t address potential complications. Given the worsening nature of your condition and the presence of fever, seeking medical care could be prudent to rule out more severe infections or conditions that can mimic food poisoning. Visiting a healthcare professional or urgent care would allow for an examination and potentially some tests to diagnose the issue properly. They’ll also advise you on whether you need further treatment or observation. It’s particularly important to seek help if you have severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or notice any blood in your stool, as these could be signs of more serious conditions. Don’t delay if you feel unsure or your condition isn’t improving, as timely assessment is key to managing your health safely.
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