When stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea hit, it’s easy to assume it’s something you ate—or perhaps a virus going around. But how can you tell if it’s food poisoning or the stomach flu? While the symptoms often overlap, understanding the differences between these two common digestive illnesses can help you seek the right treatment faster and feel better sooner.
At MedNow Urgent Care, we know how miserable gastrointestinal illnesses can be. That’s why we’re here to break down the key differences between food poisoning and stomach flu, and explain when you should seek professional care.
What Is Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning is caused by eating or drinking contaminated food or beverages. Harmful bacteria (like Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria), viruses (such as norovirus), or parasites can all be culprits. Contamination can happen at any point in the food production process—from improper storage and cooking to poor hygiene during food handling.
Common Causes:
- Undercooked meat or seafood
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- Raw eggs
- Contaminated produce
- Leftovers that weren’t refrigerated properly
What Is the Stomach Flu?
The term stomach flu is a bit misleading because it’s not actually related to influenza (the seasonal respiratory virus). The stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, is an intestinal infection caused by a virus. Common viruses include:
- Norovirus (most common in adults)
- Rotavirus (more common in children)
- Adenovirus and astrovirus (less common)
The stomach flu is highly contagious and usually spreads through close contact with an infected person.
Comparing Symptoms: Food Poisoning vs. Stomach Flu
Food poisoning and stomach flu can feel very similar, which often makes it hard to tell them apart. However, there are a few key differences in how they begin and how the symptoms progress.
Food poisoning usually strikes suddenly—often within a few hours after eating contaminated food. The symptoms can be intense and come on quickly. People often experience severe stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Depending on the type of bacteria or toxin involved, the diarrhea may even contain blood. A fever may also be present, especially in cases caused by bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria.
On the other hand, stomach flu (or viral gastroenteritis) typically develops more gradually, often one to three days after being exposed to the virus. The symptoms are very similar—nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and sometimes a mild fever—but tend to be a bit more generalized and less intense than those associated with food poisoning. The diarrhea in stomach flu is usually not bloody, and the fever is often low-grade.
Both illnesses can cause fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite. However, the timing, severity, and specific characteristics of symptoms—such as whether blood is present or how suddenly the illness begins—can help you determine which condition you might be dealing with.
Diagnosing the Cause
In most cases, both food poisoning and the stomach flu resolve on their own, so you might not need a formal diagnosis. However, if your symptoms are severe or prolonged, it’s important to visit a healthcare provider.
At MedNow Urgent Care, we can:
- Evaluate your symptoms and health history
- Perform rapid tests (such as stool cultures or viral panels)
- Recommend treatment to relieve symptoms and prevent dehydration
- Rule out more serious conditions like appendicitis or gallbladder issues
Treatment: What to Do If You’re Sick
Whether you’re dealing with food poisoning or the stomach flu, hydration is key. Both illnesses cause your body to lose fluids through vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration—a serious complication, especially in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Self-Care Tips:
- Drink plenty of fluids: Water, oral rehydration solutions (like Pedialyte), and broths are best.
- Avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages: These can worsen diarrhea and dehydration.
- Eat bland foods: Try the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) once you can keep food down.
- Rest: Let your body recover.
Over-the-Counter Medications:
- Anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) may help with food poisoning but are not always recommended for stomach flu—especially in children.
- Fever reducers like acetaminophen can help with fever and discomfort.
- Electrolyte drinks can help replenish lost minerals.
Always consult with a medical provider before taking medications, especially if symptoms are severe or involve children.
When to Visit Urgent Care
While most cases of food poisoning or stomach flu resolve on their own, some signs indicate it’s time to seek medical help:
Adults should visit MedNow Urgent Care if they experience:
- High fever (over 102°F)
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, reduced urination)
- Symptoms lasting more than 3 days
- Inability to keep fluids down
Children should be seen if they:
- Have a high fever or are unusually drowsy
- Show signs of dehydration (no tears when crying, dry mouth, fewer wet diapers)
- Have persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Are under 6 months old with any of these symptoms
Prevention Tips
Whether you want to avoid the next stomach bug or reduce your risk of food poisoning, prevention is your best defense.
To prevent food poisoning:
- Cook meat thoroughly and use a food thermometer.
- Wash fruits and vegetables before eating.
- Store food at safe temperatures (below 40°F or above 140°F).
- Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces before and after handling food.
To prevent stomach flu:
- Wash hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
- Disinfect surfaces regularly, especially during outbreaks.
- Avoid sharing utensils or drinks.
- Stay home if you’re sick to avoid spreading the virus.
Let MedNow Urgent Care Help You Feel Better
At MedNow Urgent Care, we know that even short-term illnesses like food poisoning or stomach flu can significantly impact your daily life. Our experienced medical team is here to help you get the relief you need—fast. With convenient locations, walk-in appointments, and extended hours, we’re here when you need us most.
Don’t suffer in silence. If you’re not sure what’s causing your symptoms, or if you’re feeling worse instead of better, let our team at MedNow help you get back on your feet.
Visit one of our MedNow Urgent Care locations today, or call ahead to speak with a provider. We’re here to care for you—no appointment needed.
