Food poisoning is an illness that occurs due to contaminated food, water, or beverage consumption. A variety of bacteria, viruses, and parasites can cause this condition. It can range from mild to severe depending on the type of organism involved and the amount of contamination. In this article, we will discuss eight common symptoms of food poisoning.

Signs of food poisoning

Food poisoning can have critical consequences for your health. Knowing its symptoms can help diagnose the condition and consult a doctor. Here are the symptoms of food poisoning:

1.  Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting occur when your body tries to expel the contaminated food from your stomach. Nausea is the feeling of discomfort or unease in your stomach, and vomiting is the forceful expulsion of the stomach’s contents through the mouth. Nausea and vomiting can start within hours of consuming contaminated food and may last several days. They may accompany other symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever. Consult the Best Gastroenterologist in Lahore if you experience severe or persistent symptoms.

2.  Abdominal Pain and Cramps

Abdominal pain and cramps are also common symptoms of food poisoning. They occur when the contaminated food irritates your stomach and intestines. It can cause discomfort and pain in your abdomen, as well as cramping and bloating. Abdominal pain and cramps can occur after consuming contaminated food. Cramps can be more severe that you may need medical attention.

3.  Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another common symptom of การปฐมพยาบาลเบื้องต้น poisoning. It occurs when your body tries to flush out the contaminated food from your digestive system. Loose, watery stools that occur more frequently than usual are signs of diarrhea. Diarrhea can start within hours of consuming contaminated food and may not get better soon. In most cases, the diary will resolve on its own within a few days. However, hydrate yourself by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, to prevent dehydration.

4. Fever

Fever is a common symptom of many infection types, including food poisoning. It occurs when your body’s immune system responds to the infection by raising your body temperature. Infection in your body can cause a fever. A fever of 98.6 degrees or higher is considered a fever. If it gets too high, consult a Gastroenterologist in Karachi at your earliest. In most cases, the fever will resolve on its own within a few days. Persistent and high fever may require you to seek medical attention.

5. Dehydration

Dehydration is a severe complication of food poisoning. It occurs when your body loses too much fluid and electrolytes due to vomiting and diarrhea. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems, especially in children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth and throat, dark urine, dizziness, and fatigue. In severe cases, dehydration can cause confusion, seizures, and even death. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to prevent dehydration. You may need arterial fluids to rehydrate the body.

6.  Weakness and Fatigue

Weakness and fatigue are also fewer common symptoms of food poisoning, but they can occur. They occur when your body is fighting an infection and trying to eliminate the toxins from the contaminated food. Weakness and fatigue usually occur after your body loses water and nutrients due to other symptoms of food poisoning. It may cause other health issues if it stays long-term.

7.  Blood in Stool

Blood in stool is a less common symptom of food poisoning but can signal a severe infection. It occurs when the contaminated food irritates the intestine lining, causing bleeding. Blood in the stool can be bright red or dark, depending on the location of the bleeding. If you notice blood in your stool after consuming contaminated food, seek medical attention. It requires immediate treatment. In addition to blood in stool, other symptoms of serious infection may include high fever, severe abdominal pain, and persistent vomiting.

Conclusion

Food poisoning is a common illness that can cause several symptoms, from mild to severe. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, fever, dehydration, headache, muscle aches, weakness, fatigue, and blood in stool are all common symptoms of food poisoning. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming contaminated food, consult a doctor at your earliest. The best way to prevent food poisoning is to avoid contamination by washing your hands, cooking food to the appropriate temperature, and refrigerating perishable foods promptly.