Food poisoning (or gastroenteritis) occurs when food has been contaminated with germs and their toxins because it has not been correctly handled or cooked. Bacteria can be transmitted to food from poor handling of utensils, contaminated chopping boards, poor sanitation and hand hygiene.
Common sources of food poisoning include:
• Undercooked and raw meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs
• Poorly refrigerated food
• Unpasteurized milk, dairy, juices and ciders
Common symptoms include:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tummy cramps and fever can present within a few hours of eating contaminated food. Depending on the type of virus or bacteria, symptoms may present over 24 hours later.
Most cases of food poisoning resolve themselves. Severe cases can lead to rapid dehydration particularly in infant and young children, pregnant women, people with a chronic disease such a diabetes, kidney and liver disease, cardiac conditions or a low immune system.
You need to see a doctor if you have the following:
• Excessive vomiting – you are unable to keep any fluids down
• High fever and persisting fever
• Severe abdominal pain and cramps
• Blood in vomit or in stools
• Recurrent diarrhea
• You are getting more dehydrated – dry mouth, thirsty, dark and little urine, tiredness, lightheadedness and dizziness
The key to recover from food poisoning is rehydration with some electrolyte replacements. Sipping small amounts of fluids regularly will prevent causing a large vomit. Eating plain food like rice crackers, rice or bananas will help to with calorie intake and ease your body into digestion. Avoid dairy products, rich food and high sugary food/drinks. Probiotics have shown to facilitate recovery.
If symptoms persist please seek an appointment with your doctor who can assist.
