Food poisoning occurs when you consume contaminated food or beverages. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe illness. Knowing what to do if you suspect food poisoning is crucial for a quick recovery.
A diagnosis of food poisoning is typically based on a physical examination and a thorough review of potential causes. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms, recent food and drink intake, symptoms experienced by others who shared your meals, recent medication changes, and recent travel history. A physical exam will help rule out other illnesses and assess for dehydration.
Your doctor may order tests to confirm the diagnosis and identify the cause. These tests may include stool sample analysis to detect bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins, and blood tests to pinpoint the cause of illness, rule out other conditions, or identify potential complications. Pinpointing the exact contaminated food can be challenging, especially if time has elapsed since consumption.
Treatment for food poisoning depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. In most cases, medication isn’t necessary. The primary focus is on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration.
Fluid replacement is crucial to restore the body’s electrolyte balance after fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea. Severe dehydration may require hospitalization for intravenous fluid and electrolyte administration.
Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, particularly in severe cases or for individuals at higher risk of complications. Antiparasitic medications are used to treat parasitic infections. Probiotics may be recommended to replenish beneficial bacteria in the digestive system. Over-the-counter medications for diarrhea or upset stomach may be used for adults with mild, non-bloody diarrhea and no fever. Consult your doctor before using these medications, especially for children.
For most individuals, symptoms improve within 48 hours without treatment. Several home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and prevent dehydration. Allow your stomach to settle before attempting to eat. Gradually reintroduce bland, low-fat, and easy-to-digest foods.
Prioritize fluid replacement by drinking water, sports drinks, diluted juice, or broth. Children and those at higher risk should consider rehydration solutions. Avoid dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, fatty foods, and highly seasoned foods until you feel better. Rest is essential for recovery.
When seeking medical attention for food poisoning, be prepared to provide a detailed history of your symptoms, including when they started, their duration and severity (e.g., bloody or black stools), presence of fever, recent food intake, symptoms experienced by others who ate the same food, recent travel history, medications and supplements you take, recent antibiotic use, and any recent medication changes. This information will help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
