Why does influenza cause diarrhea and fever?

Generally, the main causes of diarrhea and fever induced by influenza include dysfunction of the thermoregulatory center, abnormal intestinal motility, viral invasion of the intestines, respiratory infection complicated by enteritis, and adverse drug reactions. If discomfort symptoms occur, timely visit to a regular hospital for treatment is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Dysfunction of the Thermoregulatory Center

After invading the human body, the influenza virus stimulates the thermoregulatory center, causing functional disturbances, which leads to increased heat production and reduced heat dissipation, resulting in fever. Physical cooling methods such as wiping the forehead, armpits, and groin areas with warm water can be used during fever. If body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, medications such as paracetamol tablets, ibuprofen suspension, and aspirin enteric-coated tablets may be used under medical guidance to reduce fever.

2. Abnormal Intestinal Motility

During influenza, the virus may affect gastrointestinal nerve regulation, accelerating intestinal motility so that food is excreted before being fully digested and absorbed, causing diarrhea. Easily digestible foods such as millet porridge and well-cooked noodles may be consumed appropriately to reduce the burden on the intestines.

3. Viral Invasion of the Intestines

The influenza virus may invade the intestinal mucosa through the bloodstream, damaging the mucosa and affecting normal digestion and absorption functions of the intestine, thereby causing diarrhea. Under medical guidance, medications such as montmorillonite powder, Bifidobacterium triple viable capsules, and Bacillus subtilis and Bifidobacterium bifidum viable granules may be used to protect the intestinal mucosa and regulate intestinal flora.

4. Respiratory Infection Complicated by Enteritis

Influenza is a respiratory infection; if the condition is not properly controlled, secondary bacterial infection of the intestine may occur, causing enteritis. The inflammation may irritate the intestinal mucosa, resulting in diarrhea, and the infection may also cause fever. Antibiotics such as cefixime dispersible tablets, amoxicillin capsules, and azithromycin dry suspension may be used under medical guidance for treatment.

5. Adverse Drug Reactions

Certain medications used to treat influenza may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to intestinal dysfunction and diarrhea. Some individuals may also experience fever due to drug reactions. If symptoms are mild, consult a doctor to adjust the dosage or timing of medication, such as taking the medication after meals.

In daily life, it is important to drink plenty of warm water to replenish fluids and prevent dehydration; maintain a light and hygienic diet, avoiding raw and cold foods; ensure sufficient rest and avoid fatigue; practice personal protection to prevent cross-infection; follow medical advice for timely medication, and monitor changes in the condition.