A healthcare specialist has sounded the alarm over using ibuprofen to tackle a winter sickness bug, as Norovirus cases across the UK surge.
Savneesh Bhogal cautioned against employing this medication for combating Norovirus, particularly on an unfed stomach. She advises opting for paracetamol to manage the symptoms of the illness, which is witnessing a spike across the UK.
According to the NHS, the number of Norovirus cases has shot up by 29 per cent in the past month. If you’re hit with a sudden bout of nausea, intense vomiting, and diarrhoea, it’s highly probable that you’ve contracted norovirus, health authorities indicate.
Bhogal, attached to Virtual College by Netex as a healthcare authority, has outlined essential treatment strategies for the virus and pinpointed critical mistakes to avoid as reported by the Mirror.
She said: “There is no treatment for norovirus so you have to let it run its course. However, you can take over the counter medication, to help relieve some of the symptoms associated with the illness.
“For norovirus, paracetamol is the best method as it will help to relieve aches and pains, including headaches and stomach ache, as well as helping to keep a temperature down. Avoid taking ibuprofen, as this shouldn’t be taken on an empty stomach – and you may not feel like eating.
“Although ibuprofen is best avoided on an empty stomach as it can irritate the lining, paracetamol can be taken without food.” However, she cautioned that individuals with specific health conditions should exercise caution when taking paracetamol.
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She advised: “Just make sure to avoid taking paracetamol if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to it – or have liver or kidney problems.”
According to NHS data, Norovirus infections surged by 29 per cent between September 23 and October 6, spreading at twice the usual rate for this time of year.
Those affected have reported feeling ‘worse than they’ve ever felt’, while others who contracted the virus described the symptoms as ‘harrowing’. A nurse has revealed three ways to prevent the spread of Norovirus.
NHS Infection Prevention and Control Nurse Christine Woodgate explained in a TikTok video: “If you are feeling or being sick, have diarrhoea or have a temperature, headache, or aching in your arms or legs, it could be norovirus.”
If you suspect you have norovirus, you should stay off work and school “until you’ve not had diarrhoea or vomiting for two days,” Woodgate instructed. “Do not visit care homes or hospitals during this time,” she added.
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