The Centers for Disease Control report that 76 million people suffer from food poisoning each year. Ingesting food or drinks contaminated with food-borne bacteria can result in food poisoning. While it is difficult to identify food-borne bacteria before you eat it, there are some signs and symptoms of food-borne bacteria poisoning to look out for. The symptoms of food-borne bacteria poisoning mimic those of other illnesses. Food poisoning can be difficult to diagnose, but most infections run their course in about 12 to 48 hours.
Abdominal Cramps
Abdominal cramps are one of the chief symptoms of poisoning from food-borne bacteria, reports the Mayo Clinic. Cramps may be constant or take the form of intermittent, stabbing pains in the abdomen.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are two of the more noticeable signs of poisoning from food-borne bacteria, reports Medline Plus. Difficulty keeping food or liquid down is one of the complications of food poisoning. Combined with abdominal cramps, nausea may be one of the factors that is most helpful in diagnosing food poisoning.
Bloody Stool
Bloody stool is a more serious sign of poisoning from food-borne bacteria. Diarrhea is a natural side effect of food poisoning, but blood in the stool may indicate a more serious infection. See a doctor if you suspect food poisoning and find blood in your stool, as this may indicate a more advanced infection or some other medical issue.
Fever
Many food poisoning cases have a fever as a symptom, but not all. Contact your doctor if you think you have food poisoning and you have a fever above 101.5 Fahrenheit, as this may indicate a more serious infection or some other illness.
