Food Poisoning

Overview

Food poisoning is an illness caused by eating food or drinking water contaminated with germs or their toxins. It comes on suddenly — often within hours of the meal — with nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and sometimes fever. Most cases settle with fluids within a day or two, but some need tests or hospital care for dehydration. Safe food and water handling prevents it.

Symptoms

• Sudden nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhoea, often watery.
• Abdominal cramps and pain.
• Sometimes fever and chills.
• Tiredness and loss of appetite.
• Onset often within hours of eating the suspected food.

Evaluation

Most cases are diagnosed from the history and need no tests. A stool test and blood tests are ordered when symptoms are severe, prolonged, bloody, or accompanied by high fever or dehydration.

Management

Management is mainly supportive: oral rehydration, fluids and a light diet. Antibiotics are rarely needed and are used only for specific severe bacterial causes. Anti-vomiting medicine may help. Severe dehydration needs intravenous fluids and hospital care.

Warning signs — seek urgent care

• Signs of dehydration — dizziness, dry mouth, little or no urine.
• Blood in stools or vomit.
• Persistent vomiting preventing fluid intake.
• Very high fever, confusion or drowsiness.
• Symptoms lasting beyond 2–3 days or worsening.

How we help

Dr. Nayak assesses severity and hydration, advises on fluids and diet, orders tests when needed, and refers severe cases to hospital. Consultations are available in-clinic in Bhubaneswar and over teleconsultation.

Related conditions and patient concerns

• Acute Gastrointestinal Infection
• Typhoid Fever
• Fever
• Digestive Problems
• Kidney Health