
Stomach ache, cramps, vomiting or diarrhoea might be caused by a few things, but most often they are caused by a bug and are short-lived.
An upset stomach can usually be treated at home and should get better within a few days.
There are medicines available over the counter to help ease some symptoms and a pharmacist can help you find what you need.
Norovirus is the most common stomach bug in the UK and is particularly common in the winter months.
With sickness and diarrhoea caused by a bug (like norovirus), a full recovery will usually be made within 2-3 days.
An upset stomach caused by foods or intolerances should last no more than 1-2 days.
Symptoms of a stomach bug may include:
Your local pharmacist can help advise you on steps to take and medicines to help ease an upset stomach, such as Imodium for diarrhoea.
If you think you have a food intolerance or IBS, it’s a good idea to keep a food diary for a couple of weeks, noting down everything you eat or drink and when you get an upset stomach.
Call NHS 111 for medical advice if you are worried about severe symptoms or problems lasting longer than a week or if your child experiences any of the following symptoms:
If you're concerned about yourself, a relative or friend, call NHS 111 for medical advice, this free service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
The advisors taking 111 calls are in the same room as those answering 999 calls, so if urgent attention is needed, they can arrange it immediately for you.
Your views and feedback are important to us as we strive to ensure health services in Hampshire are the best they can be. If you would like to get in touch with the CCG or if you have any questions or feedback on the information on this website, please contact us via:
Tel: 02380 627 444 Email: info@westhampshireccg.nhs.uk
Omega House, 112 Southampton Road
Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 5PB
For more information about us go to:
www.westhampshireccg.nhs.uk
The NHS in Hampshire is represented by seven local Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs):
Led by local GPs, we are committed to ensuring the public has a strong and clear voice to shape our work and that we are open and transparent in our approach to planning and purchasing the health care you need.
This website was created in 2015 by West Hampshire CCG in order to support local people to manage minor illness and injury.