Truth About Food Poisoning: What to Know and How to Stay Safe

Food poisoning is a common but serious health issue that can affect anyone. It usually happens after eating contaminated food or drinking unsafe water. While most cases are mild and resolve in a few days, some can cause severe symptoms and complications. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and how to respond can help you recover faster and reduce your risk of getting sick.

What Causes Food Poisoning?

Food poisoning occurs when harmful microorganisms or toxins contaminate what we eat or drink. The main culprits include:

1. Bacteria

• Salmonella: Found in raw poultry, eggs, and unpasteurised dairy.
• E. coli: Linked to undercooked beef and raw vegetables.
• Listeria: Survives refrigeration and contaminates deli meats, soft cheeses, and raw sprouts.

2. Viruses

• Norovirus: Common in raw shellfish and uncooked vegetables.
• Hepatitis A: Spread through poor hand hygiene and contaminated food.

3. Parasites

• Giardia and Cryptosporidium: Found in untreated water or unwashed produce.
• Toxoplasma gondii: Found in undercooked meat, risky for pregnant women and those with low immunity.

4. Toxins

• Staphylococcus aureus and Clostridium botulinum: Bacteria that release toxins in improperly stored food. Botulism, caused by Clostridium, is rare but life-threatening.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning

Symptoms can appear within hours or take several days to show up, depending on the source. The most common signs include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood or mucus
• Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue and weakness
• Headaches and body aches
• Signs of dehydration: dry mouth, dizziness, reduced urination

How to Treat Food Poisoning at Home

Mild cases of food poisoning can often be managed with home care. The goal is to stay hydrated, eat light, and rest. Here’s what to do:

1. Rehydrate

• Sip water, ORS, or clear liquids regularly.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine.

2. Eat Simple Foods

• Stick to plain rice, toast, bananas, or boiled potatoes.
• Avoid dairy, spicy, oily, and high-fiber foods.

3. Natural Remedies

• Ginger tea: Helps with nausea.
• Probiotics: Help restore gut health.
• Use apple cider vinegar cautiously, only in mild cases.

4. Rest

• Give your body time to recover. Avoid strenuous activity.

Medication Options

Medications may ease symptoms but must be used with care:

• Paracetamol: Reduces fever and pain.
• ORS and electrolyte drinks: Prevent dehydration.
• Anti-diarrhoeals: Avoid if you have bloody stools or fever.
• Antibiotics: Only when prescribed for bacterial infections.

Always consult a doctor before taking any medication, especially if symptoms are severe.

When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical help if:

• Vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than 48 hours
• You see blood in your stools
• You have a high fever (over 38.5°C)
• Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, or reduced urination
• You have neurological symptoms like muscle weakness or blurred vision

These signs could indicate serious complications requiring urgent care.

Prevention Tips: How to Avoid Food Poisoning

Safe Food Handling

• Wash hands before and after preparing food.
• Disinfect kitchen surfaces and cutting boards.
• Separate raw meat from fresh produce and cooked meals.

Cooking and Storage

• Cook meat, poultry, and seafood thoroughly.
• Reheat leftovers to at least 75°C.
• Keep perishable items in the fridge below 5°C.

Choose Foods Wisely

• Avoid raw or undercooked eggs, meat, or seafood.
• Check expiry dates and avoid damaged packaging.
• Be cautious when eating street food or while travelling.

Practice Good Hygiene

• Rinse fruits and vegetables under running water.
• Wash reusable grocery bags regularly.
• Avoid preparing food for others if you're sick.

Common Questions About Food Poisoning

How quickly do symptoms show up?

Symptoms usually start within 6 to 24 hours, but some, like Listeria infections, may take days or weeks.

Is food poisoning contagious?

Yes, especially when caused by viruses like norovirus. Proper handwashing reduces the risk of spreading it to others.

Which foods carry the highest risk?

Raw meat, seafood, unpasteurised dairy, undercooked eggs, and foods left at room temperature too long.

Can food poisoning lead to long-term problems?

In some cases, it can trigger digestive disorders like post-infectious IBS, especially after bacterial infections.

How is it different from a stomach virus?

Food poisoning results from contaminated food or water. A stomach virus spreads from person to person. Symptoms overlap, but onset and severity may vary.

What’s the Takeaway?

Food poisoning may be common, but it shouldn't be taken lightly. Simple precautions like washing hands, cooking food properly, and being aware of expiry dates can go a long way in keeping your meals safe.

If symptoms are severe, persistent, or cause dehydration, don't wait—consult a medical professional. Specialists at Max Hospital can help diagnose the cause and guide you through a safe recovery plan.