Symptoms of gastroenteritis, commonly known as the stomach flu or "gastro," typically last for 24 to 72 hours. However, in some cases, particularly when contracted while traveling abroad or upon return, symptoms can persist for up to 10 days.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Typical Duration: 1 to 3 days. Most people recover within this timeframe.
- Longer Duration: Up to 10 days. This is more common if the gastroenteritis was acquired during international travel.
Key Considerations:
- Contagious Period: Individuals are most contagious while experiencing symptoms, especially when symptoms are severe.
- Individual Variation: Recovery time can vary depending on the specific virus or bacteria causing the infection, the individual's overall health, and their immune system.
Therefore, while a vast majority of gastro cases resolve within a few days, it's important to be aware that longer durations are possible, especially in specific circumstances.
