Millions of people each year get food poisoning. Food poisoning is an illness that is caused by eating foods that have been contaminated with parasites, viruses, or bacteria. These organisms can enter food at any point, including when it is harvested and when it is prepared. Some people will have a sudden onset of food poisoning, while others may have several days where they feel fine and then, later on, get sick. It will just depend on the type of foodborne illness they have. Symptoms of foodborne illnesses will depend on what type of contamination is present. The following signs and symptoms will be present:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Water diarrhea
- Bloody diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Pain
- Fever
These symptoms can last for several days or a week or more, depending on what has made the person sick. If someone suffering from food poisoning has a fever, signs of dehydration, or is severely sick, they should see their doctor as soon as possible.
Common Causes of Food Poisoning
When food is improperly handled and improperly cooked, it can lead to food poisoning. The most common food poisoning causes are:
- Clostridium botulinum. This is a toxin that is found in foods that have been improperly canned or have been kept at warm temps for too long.
- Campylobacter. This occurs when feces touch meat surfaces, milk, or water.
- E. coli. The most common reason why people get this is due to undercooked beef. It comes from beef getting contaminated with feces. In some cases, it can be found in alfalfa sprouts, contaminated water, unpasteurized milk, and apple cider.
- Clostridium perfringens. This is found in food that is not kept hot enough or the food does not get cold enough when being stored.
- Listeria. Listeria is commonly found in unpasteurized milk and cheeses, hot dogs, and lunch meat. It can be spread through the water and soil.
- Hepatitis A. Produce and shellfish from contaminated waters can help spread this disease. If a food handler has this condition, it can be spread to the food.
- Giardia lamblia. This is found in contaminated water and raw ready to eat produce.
- Norovirus. Typically, norovirus is spread from an infected food handler to food that is prepared by them. It can also be found in shellfish and produce.
- Salmonella. Salmonella is found when there is an inadequate cooking process for meat, including poultry. It can also be spread by an infected food handler.
- Shigella. Shigella is found in seafood and produce.
- Vibrio vulnificus. When oysters, mussels, clams, and scallops are raw or undercooked, this can occur. It can be spread by seawater that has been contaminated.
- Staphylococcus aureus. This can be found in cream sauces, cream-filled pastries, salads, and meats. It can be spread by sneezing, coughing, and hand contact.
Treating Yourself and Feeling Better
Most people recover from food poisoning without any major treatment. However, there are some treatment options out there to alleviate the symptoms of having food poisoning.
- Rest - When a person has food poisoning, they will not feel like doing much and will need to rest. Taking time to rest will help the body to recuperate.
- Hydration - One of the biggest concerns when food poisoning is present is that a person can become dehydrated very quickly. It is important that a person drink as much as they can, even if they are vomiting. Electrolyte replacement drinks are a good option when having food poisoning. In some severe cases, a person will need to go to the hospital for IV fluids.
- Simple diets - When a person starts the road to recovery when having food poisoning, they will want to eat a bland diet. Easy to digest foods should be eaten during this time to ensure that the nausea does not return.
- Probiotics - A doctor may recommend a person try getting probiotics in their diet to ensure that their gut bacteria returns to normal.
- Antibiotics - In some cases, like in the case of a bacterial infection, the doctor may recommend the use of antibiotics. It is important to note that antibiotics can worsen some foodborne illnesses.
- OTC medication - There are several over the counter medications that can be used to help alleviate the symptoms of food poisoning.
Most foodborne illnesses are gone within a few days. It is very important to stay hydrated and to see a doctor if the illness persists or the symptoms are severe.