What is food poisoning?

Foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, is caused by eating contaminated, spoiled, or toxic food. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are the most common symptoms of food poisoning, says the best medicine doctor in Kolkata.

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Food poisoning is not uncommon, despite how unpleasant it is.

Symptoms of food poisoning

If you have food poisoning, it is unlikely that it will go unnoticed. Depending on the source of the infection, symptoms may vary. A few of the following symptoms are common in cases of food poisoning:

• Stomach cramps

• Diarrhea

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Appetite loss

• Mild fever

• Weakness

• Headache

Causes of food poisoning

Most food poisoning is caused by one of three significant agents: bacteria, parasites, or viruses, says the medicine doctor in Kolkata.

These pathogens can be found in almost all foods consumed by humans. On the other hand, heat from cooking usually kills pathogens on food before it reaches our plate. Because raw foods do not go through the cooking process, they are common sources of food poisoning.

Meat, eggs and dairy products are often tainted. Water may also be contaminated with pathogenic organisms.

Treatments for food poisoning

Food poisoning is usually treatable at home. Here are a few things you can do to treat it:

Stay hydrated

It is critical to stay hydrated if you have food poisoning. Electrolyte-rich drinks are beneficial in this condition. Fruit juice and coconut water can help with fatigue and carbohydrate replenishment.

Take over-the-counter (OTC) medications

OTC medications can help manage diarrhoea and suppress nausea. However, you should consult a doctor before using these medications because the body uses vomiting and diarrhoea to eliminate the toxin, so suppressing it can cause further problems, says the emergency medicine doctor in Kolkata.

Take prescription medications

Although many cases of food poisoning resolve on their own, depending on the pathogen responsible for their illness, some people may benefit from prescription medications.

Rest

Those suffering from food poisoning should also get plenty of rest as it boosts the recovery process.

If the situation is critical

In severe cases of food poisoning, you may require hospitalization for intravenous (IV) fluid hydration.

In the most severe cases of food poisoning, you may need to stay in the hospital for a longer period to recover. Severe cases of clostridium botulinum, which are uncommon, may necessitate mechanical ventilation, says the MD medicine doctor in Kolkata.