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How to Know If You Have Food Poisoning


How to Know If You Have Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is an illness caused by consuming contaminated food or drinks containing harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 48 million people in the United States get sick from foodborne illnesses each year. Because its symptoms can resemble other stomach problems, many people wonder how to know if they actually have food poisoning.

What Are the Symptoms of Food Poisoning?

The Mayo Clinic explains that symptoms of food poisoning usually appear within hours to days after eating contaminated food and may include:

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Diarrhea (sometimes watery or bloody)

  • Abdominal cramps and pain

  • Fever and chills

  • Headaches and muscle aches

  • Fatigue and weakness

Most cases are mild and resolve on their own, but severe symptoms should not be ignored.

How Do You Know If It’s Food Poisoning and Not Something Else?

Food poisoning can be confused with stomach flu or other digestive issues. The Cleveland Clinic suggests looking for these clues:

  • Symptoms appear quickly, usually within a few hours of eating

  • More than one person who ate the same food becomes ill

  • Vomiting and diarrhea happen suddenly and intensely

  • Symptoms improve within a few days unless complications arise

What Increases the Risk of Food Poisoning?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), risk factors include:

  • Eating undercooked or raw meat, poultry, eggs, or seafood

  • Consuming unpasteurized milk or juices

  • Poor food handling, storage, or hygiene practices

  • Weakened immune system (elderly, pregnant women, infants, or people with chronic illnesses)

When Should You See a Doctor for Food Poisoning?

The Mayo Clinic recommends seeking medical care if you experience:

  • Persistent vomiting, unable to keep liquids down

  • Severe diarrhea lasting more than 3 days

  • High fever (over 102°F or 38.9°C)

  • Signs of dehydration: dizziness, dry mouth, little or no urination

  • Blood in vomit or stool

These may indicate a serious infection that requires medical treatment.

How Is Food Poisoning Treated?

Most cases improve within a few days with rest and fluids. Treatment options include:

  • Hydration: drinking water, broths, or oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids and electrolytes

  • Rest: allowing your body time to recover

  • Over-the-counter medications: such as anti-diarrheal drugs, if recommended by a doctor

  • Antibiotics: only in certain bacterial infections, prescribed by a healthcare provider

The CDC emphasizes that antibiotics are not always needed and may even worsen some infections.

How Can You Prevent Food Poisoning?

The WHO outlines safe food practices to reduce the risk:

  • Wash hands, utensils, and cooking surfaces regularly

  • Cook meat, poultry, and seafood thoroughly

  • Avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods

  • Refrigerate leftovers promptly

  • Drink pasteurized milk and juices only

By practicing good food safety habits, most cases of food poisoning can be avoided.

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