Food poisoning happens when you eat or drink something contaminated. For some people, symptoms show up quickly, while for others, it might take a few days. In the U.S., about one in six people get food poisoning each year.
Typically, food poisoning clears up on its own in a few days without serious or lasting problems. To feel better, it’s important to stay hydrated and manage symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. To lower your chances of getting sick, eat food that’s well-cooked and properly stored.
The symptoms of food poisoning are pretty similar to a stomach virus. They can go away in as little as 24 hours or hang around for up to a week. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In infants and children, symptoms might also include fussiness and not wanting to eat.
Sometimes, the symptoms are more severe and need medical attention. This usually happens when food or drinks are contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. How quickly you get symptoms after eating or drinking can help figure out the cause.
Those with weaker immune systems, like young children and seniors, are more prone to severe effects and might risk dehydration, which can lead to more serious illness. For these groups, food poisoning can be more dangerous and might necessitate immediate medical care. For instance, kids younger than 5 are three times more likely to be hospitalized for Salmonella poisoning.
It’s not always easy to tell if you have food poisoning or just a stomach virus. A healthcare provider will usually ask about your recent meals and symptoms. They’ll also check your blood pressure, pulse, and abdomen. If your symptoms are severe, more tests might be done.
Treatment usually focuses on symptom relief and preventing dehydration. Over-the-counter medications like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol can help with diarrhea, but they’re not recommended for infants and children. Probiotics might also ease digestive issues, but always check with a doctor before trying new supplements. For severe symptoms, a healthcare provider might suggest an oral rehydration solution (ORS) to help balance fluids and electrolytes, especially for children. If the cause is bacterial, antibiotics may be recommended, or antiparasitics if it’s a parasite.
You can’t always prevent food poisoning, but following food safety tips can reduce the risk. When traveling, especially to developing countries, it’s safer to drink bottled or treated water to avoid issues like travelers’ diarrhea.
Food poisoning can lead to complications like dehydration or, in rare cases, botulism. Dehydration, caused by diarrhea or fever, is a serious risk, especially if you feel too sick to drink. Symptoms of dehydration range from feeling thirsty and dry mouth to more severe effects.
Botulism is a severe condition caused by toxins from bacteria usually found in improperly canned or fermented foods, and infants can be particularly affected. If you notice symptoms like blurred vision or difficulty breathing, seek medical help right away. Immediate treatment with a medication called Botulinum Antitoxin, Heptavalent (HBAT), can address botulism effectively.
Most food poisoning cases resolve on their own within a week. Staying hydrated helps prevent further complications. Always practice good food safety habits, like washing your hands regularly, to minimize the risk. If symptoms are severe or dehydration occurs, get in touch with a healthcare provider.
