Food Poisoning: All about its warning signs and remedial measures
Food poisoning occurs after consuming contaminated food or water and causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and fever. Dehydration is a major concern. Diagnosis involves history, stool tests, and electrolytes. Treatment focuses on rehydration, light diet, and rest. Prevention includes hygiene, proper cooking, safe water, and avoiding cross-contamination.
What Food Poisoning Means Food poisoning refers to an illness caused by consuming contaminated food or water, which contains pathogens like bacteria, viruses, or toxins. Some may even contain parasites, and lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, which usually appear within a few hours to days. (Picture Credit: Canva)
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Common Bacterial Culprits There are a number of bacteria responsible for causing food poisoning, like Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and E. coli. Others include Campylobacter and Vibrio cholerae, which contaminate improperly cooked food. Poor hygiene and cross-contamination also increase the risk of food poisoning. (Picture Credit: Canva)
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Vomiting as Early Sign The affected person may experience a sudden onset of nausea and vomiting. Multiple episodes of vomiting can occur, which can lead to dehydration in severe cases. Vomiting serves as the body’s attempt to remove the pathogen, however, the dehydration caused due to this may require fluid replacement. (Picture Credit: Canva)
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Diarrhoea and Abdominal Pain Some persons also experience loose stools, which may be watery, and at times, show blood. Alongside, the person can have pain in the abdomen because of irritation and inflammation of the intestinal lining. Blood in stools may point towards invasive bacteria like Shigella. (Picture Credit: Canva)
Fever and Systemic Signs Bacterial infections also cause fever and chills, along with fatigue. Severe weakness and dizziness can occur in some persons, and a reduced urine output may indicate dehydration. Signs of dehydration must be looked out for, like dry mouth, sunken eyes and reduced skin turgor. (Picture Credit: Canva)
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Importance of Good History A detailed history is essential for diagnosis, including details about onset of symptoms, type of food consumed, history of travel, and characteristics of stool. Stool examination may be advised to identify organisms or toxins, and stool culture can aid in identifying the bacteria. (Picture Credit: Canva)
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Role of Stool Testing Blood tests that check serum electrolyte levels can help detect dehydration. Replacing lost fluids is crucial to restore normal electrolyte levels and prevent complications. ORS is recommended and should be taken in small and frequent sips. (Picture Credit: Canva)
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Light Diet During Recovery During the phase of recovery, a light diet is advised. Foods that are easily digested, like rice, bananas, curd, and toast, are recommended during an episode of food poisoning. Clear soups help, while fatty and spicy foods must be avoided. (Picture Credit: Canva)
Essential Prevention Practices Proper handwashing and clean cooking surfaces prevent cross-contamination, reducing the risk of food poisoning. Defrosted food must not be refrozen, and raw items should be stored separately from cooked food. Adequate cooking usually kills most infectious organisms. (Picture Credit: Canva)
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Safe Drinking Measures Safe drinking practices must be promoted, and boiling water is necessary if its purity is uncertain. Pasteurised dairy products should be consumed, and fruits and vegetables must be washed thoroughly. If symptoms persist, a healthcare provider must be consulted. (Picture Credit: Canva) Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
