The Rise of Stomach Bugs in Warmer Months: When to Seek Care
When the temperatures rise, so do the cases of stomach bugs. While summer in Houston, Texas, is a time for outdoor fun, picnics, and vacations, it also brings an uptick in gastrointestinal infections. At Medella Urgent Care, we often see a spike in patients dealing with stomach flu, food poisoning, and related symptoms during the warmer months. Understanding why this happens and knowing when to seek medical help can help you and your family stay healthy.
Why Stomach Bugs Are More Common in Warmer Weather
The term “stomach bug” typically refers to viral or bacterial infections of the gastrointestinal tract. These can be caused by a variety of culprits, including norovirus, rotavirus, and bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella, among others. Houston’s higher temperatures and increased humidity create the perfect conditions for these pathogens to multiply, especially in food that’s not stored or handled properly.
During the summer, people tend to eat outdoors more frequently, which can lead to increased exposure to contaminated food or surfaces. Poolside snacks, BBQs, and road trip meals are convenient, but they also carry risks if food safety guidelines aren’t followed.
Stomach Flu vs. Food Poisoning: What’s the Difference?
Although “stomach flu” and “food poisoning” are often used interchangeably, they refer to different causes of gastrointestinal distress.
- Stomach flu is typically caused by a virus and spreads from person to person.
- Food poisoning results from consuming contaminated food or beverages and is often bacterial.
Both conditions can present with similar symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. However, food poisoning may also include fever or chills, depending on the type of bacteria involved.
Symptoms to Watch For
Most stomach bugs resolve on their own with rest and hydration. But some symptoms may indicate that it’s time to seek professional medical care. At Medella Urgent Care, we offer urgent care for nausea and other gastrointestinal concerns to help you recover quickly and safely.
Seek medical attention if you or a loved one experiences:
- Severe or persistent vomiting and diarrhea lasting more than two days
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, infrequent urination)
- High fever (above 102°F)
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Intense abdominal pain
- Inability to keep fluids down
Prompt treatment can prevent complications, especially in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
How Medella Urgent Care Can Help
If you suspect a stomach bug or food poisoning, Medella Urgent Care is here to provide fast, effective treatment without the wait associated with an emergency room. Our experienced team can diagnose and treat gastrointestinal infections, offering services such as:
- IV hydration for rapid rehydration
- Anti-nausea and anti-diarrheal medications
- Diagnostic testing for bacterial and viral causes
- Personalized treatment plans for faster recovery
We understand how disruptive a stomach illness can be, especially during the summer months. Our clinics in Magnolia and Vintage Park are open seven days a week with extended evening hours, making it easy to get the care you need when it matters most.
Tips to Avoid Summer Stomach Bugs
While not all gastrointestinal infections can be prevented, following a few best practices can reduce your risk:
- Wash hands frequently, especially before meals
- Keep cold foods chilled and hot foods hot
- Avoid undercooked meats and seafood
- Disinfect surfaces and utensils when preparing meals to reduce cross-contamination
- Stay home if you’re feeling unwell to avoid spreading illness
By staying vigilant, you can enjoy your summer activities while minimizing the risk of contracting the stomach flu or food poisoning.
Don’t Wait—Get Care Fast
A sudden stomach illness can leave you feeling miserable, but you don’t have to wait it out alone. Medella Urgent Care provides urgent care for nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal distress symptoms. If you’re dealing with a stomach bug or food poisoning that just won’t go away, contact us or visit one of our walk-in clinics in Vintage Park or Magnolia, TX, today for personalized care from a team that puts your health first.
