What is food poisoning?

Food poisoning, also known as foodborne illness, occurs when consuming contaminated foods containing harmful organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The toxins produced by these organisms can result in a spectrum of symptoms, ranging from mild or asymptomatic cases to severe, potentially life-threatening illnesses that may necessitate hospitalization.

 

What are the signs of food poisoning?

Common symptoms of food poisoning include:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Loose or watery stool
• Abdominal cramping or pain
• Fevers and chills

While these symptoms are generally not alarming, it is advisable to seek medical attention if you experience:

• Bloody diarrhea or vomit
• Intense abdominal cramping or pain
• Diarrhea lasting longer than 72 hours
• Inability to retain food or liquids
• Uncontrolled or frequent vomiting
• Signs of dehydration, such as severe weakness, light-headedness, dizziness, inability to urinate, excessive thirst, or dry mouth

Additionally, if you have a food poisoning-related fever with an oral temperature exceeding 100.4°F, prompt consultation with a doctor is recommended.

 

What triggers food poisoning?

The specific causes of food poisoning can vary, depending on the particular organism ingested.

In the majority of instances, food poisoning arises from the contamination of food during its production, storage, or preparation.

Certain bacteria associated with food poisoning can thrive when food is left at unsafe temperatures for extended periods. Viruses and parasites typically contaminate food when improper sanitization procedures are employed during handling. Cross-contamination may also occur with other raw foods either during the production process or while cooking.

Taking measures such as ensuring thorough cooking and maintaining safe holding temperatures before consumption can effectively eliminate many of these harmful organisms.

 

How is food poisoning addressed?

The recommended approach to food poisoning treatment provided by a Laso MD healthcare professional typically hinges on the specific organism causing the condition, which is not always definitively identified, and the severity of your symptoms.

For mild cases of food poisoning, rest, ample clear fluid intake to prevent dehydration, and consumption of bland foods are usually advised.

In more severe instances, medication may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms. If the healthcare professional suspects harmful bacteria as the cause, antibiotics might be necessary.

 

Can food poisoning lead to seizures?

While rare compared to other food poisoning symptoms, seizures or paralysis can occur in certain cases. This typically happens after consuming specific poisonous mushrooms or plants, or contaminated fish or shellfish.

In these exceptional instances, seizures result from the body’s severe reaction to the toxins released by the contaminated organism.

If such an event occurs, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention by going to the emergency room.

 

What distinguishes food poisoning from stomach flu?

The primary distinction between stomach flu and food poisoning is often the duration between exposure and symptom onset.

Stomach flu tends to develop over several days and is more likely to manifest symptoms such as projectile vomiting and intense stomach cramps. Some mild forms of food poisoning can also present with these symptoms.

Severe food poisoning is more prone to cause symptoms like dehydration and the presence of bloody diarrhea or vomit.

 

How long does it take for food poisoning symptoms to appear?

The onset of food poisoning symptoms varies depending on the specific organism causing the condition.

While certain types of food poisoning can manifest within as little as two hours, others may take days or even weeks to fully develop. Typically, symptoms of food poisoning will appear between 6 to 24 hours after consuming contaminated food.

 

What should be done in case of food poisoning?

For individuals experiencing mild food poisoning, the recommended approach is to rest, stay hydrated with clear fluids, and avoid spicy, greasy, or irritating foods. Symptoms should naturally subside within 24 to 48 hours.

If a more severe case of food poisoning is suspected, consulting with a Laso MD doctor is advised. They can help determine the best course of action to alleviate symptoms, which may include necessary medications to combat the organism causing the illness.

 

What is Laso MD?

At Laso MD, you can initiate a conversation with a doctor about your symptoms within minutes. We are a healthcare platform offering quick and convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

Just log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we’ll promptly connect you to a doctor through live chat or video. Visit our “How it Works” page to explore more details.

Our medical professionals are capable of assessing symptoms and offering necessary treatment, including prescriptions.