Food poisoning symptoms vary with the amount of the contaminated food that is consumed as well as the nature of the contaminant. The symptoms could come about quickly, within a half hour period or slowly getting worst over days or even weeks. The common sources of contamination mostly cause diarrhea, vomiting, cramps in the abdomen or nausea. Typically food poisoning is not fatal and often takes its course over a day or so.
Where a certain contaminant is found viruses usually account for the food poisoning. A group of viruses called Noroviruses cause stomach flu which is a mild illness. The symptoms experienced are vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, headache, pain in the abdomen as well as a slight fever. These symptoms usually subside after a few days have elapsed. This is the most popular virus involved in adult food poisoning. It is passed from water, vegetables contaminated by feces, shellfish, and also between people. The virus outbreaks are frequent at places that are heavily populated such as cruise ships, this is the why it is sometimes referred to as cruise ship illness. Other areas include schools and nursing homes.
The common symptoms of food poisoning that persons will experience are feelings of an upset stomach and nausea. There may also be a fever that extends over a 24 hour period. Along with this there will also be abdominal cramps which could be preceded by vomiting or it may come after. The diarrhea which is very common may be either bloody or there may be pus in the stool. A person suffering from food poisoning may also experience numbness or a tingling in the legs, arms or mouth.
Food Poisoning Symptoms that may persist
Food poisoning symptoms should be short term. Some conditions may however persist, extending over the average period that they would normally last. There may also be a persistent fever along with chills. The chills may not always be experienced with the fever. The diarrhea may be extremely watery. In addition a person may experience symptoms of dehydration. They may become really thirsty, urine is quite low, and the mouth feels extremely dry. Severe weakness, dizziness and light-headedness can also be possible food poisoning symptoms. These symptoms are a cause for concern because they go out of the normal time that food poisoning is expected to last. It is advisable that persons who have these symptoms seek medical attention as the conditions may get worst. Consulting a doctor is also important if there are other persons in the family or among the group that is sick.
Food poisoning symptoms can be treated by replacing the potassium and fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting. Persons should drink clear fluids or energy drinks that have been diluted. If medical attention is being sought the doctor will give medication to treat the symptoms.
To avoid food poisoning one should try to maintain good hygiene by washing hands regularly and using clean utensils.
