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Food poisoning is an illness caused by eating food that is contaminated by infectious organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Food poisoning is not the same as viral gastroenteritis, which is more commonly referred to as a stomach bug or stomach flu and can be spread from person to person. Those are caused by certain viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus, astrovirus, or adenovirus. Food poisoning is contracted by consuming contaminated food or water. In contrast, viral gastroenteritis is contracted by touching any surface that is contained in the stool, saliva, or vomit of someone already infected by certain viruses.
Food poisoning symptoms vary with the source of contamination; however many types share similar signs and symptoms:
Food poisoning signs and symptoms may start several hours after eating contaminated food. They can also be observable after 1-2 days, and in rare cases, several weeks later. The duration of sickness can be from several hours to several days. You should seek medication attention if you notice:
Food poisoning is caused by eating contaminated food, and the contamination of food can happen at any point along the food production process. Raw or ready-to-eat foods are contaminated most easily. When food is consumed raw or undercooked, the harmful organisms are not destroyed by the heat of cooking, thus potentially leading to food poisoning. Food poisoning can be caused by different bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
Food poisoning is generally self-limiting, which means that it resolves on its own within a few days. Therefore, medication to stop diarrhoea is not routinely given. Prevention of dehydration is the most important part of treatment. Water, electrolyte drinks and oral rehydration solutions should be liberally consumed. If hydration cannot be maintained, due to vomiting and diarrhoea, hospitalisation for re-hydration is sometimes needed.
In special cases, the patient may be given
Food poisoning treatment may also include:
Food poisoning is sometimes unavoidable depending on where you are eating, or the unknown conditions of the food. However, the risk of food poisoning can be reduced by:
Food poisoning symptoms usually include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, or fever.
Food poisoning symptoms may begin with hours of eating contaminated food, but may present up to 1-2 days later or, in some rare cases, the symptoms may set in after several weeks.
Diarrhoea caused by food poisoning can be treated with anti-diarrhoea medicines such as Pepto Bismol or Imodium. However, this is often not necessary or recommended.. You may also be given pain relievers or medicine for nausea or cramps.
Staying hydrated is the most important treatment for Food poisoning. Water, electrolyte drinks and oral rehydration solutions should be liberally consumed.
This article was independently written by Healthy Matters and is not sponsored. It is informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be relied upon for specific medical advice.
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