Foodborne illness, commonly referred to as food poisoning, occurs when a person consumes food or beverages that contain harmful bacteria, parasites, viruses, toxins or even chemicals. There is usually an incubation period of a few hours to a few days after eating tainted food before the signs of illness begin. Food poisoning signs and symptoms of food poisoning vary greatly and depend on the type of microbe or toxin ingested, but in most cases the signs of food poisoning resemble influenza. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), food poisoning may last a few hours or even several days and can range in severity.
Nausea
Nausea is often the body's first sign of dealing with foodborne infection. However, nausea is often closely related to the onset of the common flu, and thus in many cases the food poisoning may come and go without being properly diagnosed.
Abdominal Cramps
Painful muscular contractions in the stomach and entire abdominal area are often associated with food poisoning. For women, the onset of this sign of food poisoning may be misinterpreted as premenstrual cramping. Food poisoning is usually not even suspected unless accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea.
Vomiting
Accompanied with or without nausea, vomiting is the body's way of quickly eliminating the tainted food and toxins from the stomach. Call your doctor if you are unable to drink fluids due to vomiting and especially if you also have diarrhea.
Diarrhea
Loose bowels or diarrhea is an effective means the body will use to rid itself of food poisons in the intestines. Call your health care provider if diarrhea lasts for more than two to three days or if there is blood in your stools. Go to the emergency room if bleeding is excessive or stools are black or maroon.
Dehydration
Serious dehydration can occur with food poisoning when followed by vomiting and diarrhea. Replace lost fluids and electrolytes with clean water and other liquids specifically designed for rehydration, such as sports drinks. The signs of dehydration often begin with a headache, fatigue and thirst. Call your doctor if you have dehydration signs that include severe thirst, light-headedness or dizziness.
Fever
High fever may indicate a more serious case of food poisoning. Call your doctor if you suspect food poisoning and have a fever over 101° F.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing;" Phyllis A. Balch; 2006
- NLM.NIH.gov: Food Poisoning
- Digestive.NIDDK.NIH.gov: Bacteria and Foodborne Illness
