Signs and symptoms of food poisoning
Symptoms of food poisoning vary according to the source of infection. First symptoms may appear as soon as 1 hour or as long as 28 days after consumption of contaminated food. Common cases of food poisoning will typically include at least three of the following symptoms:
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Mild fever
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Headaches
What to do if I have food poisoning
If we are healthy, our immune systems can deal with small numbers of bacteria and viruses. At higher levels, they can make us quite sick. Most cases of food poisoning are mild and the symptoms clear up in a few days. During this period of recovery, the goal is to prevent dehydration. Drink lots of liquids, but avoid milk and caffeinated beverages.
If you developed the symptoms after returning from a trip, you should consider seeing a doctor, as the cause of the food poisoning might be a bacterial infection, which is more commonly related to travel.
When to seek emergency medical attention
Although most food poisoning cases เล่น UFABET ผ่านมือถือ สะดวกทุกที่ ทุกเวลา are mild, some can be serious and life-threatening. See your doctor immediately if you have
Breathing difficulty
Diarrhoea persisting for more than 3 days
A high fever (39°C and above)
Severe or persistent abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting for more than 12 hours
Symptoms of severe dehydration, eg. a dry mouth, passing little to no urine or having urine that’s darker than usual, dizziness, and difficulty keeping fluids down
Blood in your stool
Poor handwashing:
Food can be contaminated by faeces that leftovers on the hands after using the toilet. Other contaminants can be transferred from hands to food during preparation or serving.
Not disinfecting cooking or eating areas:
Contaminants can be spread by unwashed knives, cutting boards, and other common kitchen tools.
Food that has kept out at room temperature for a long time can become contaminated. Similarly, if food has been kept in the refrigerator for an extended period, it can spoil. Food stored in an overly warm refrigerator or freezer can also spoil.