Food Poisoning: Cause And Cure

Food poisoning is also known as foodborne illness which is a result of eating contaminated, spoiled or toxic food. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common symptoms of food poisoning. The symptoms of food poisoning vary because of the source of infection but it can start appearing within 1 hour to 28 days. The common cause of food poisoning causes the following symptoms:- abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, mild fever, weakness, nausea, headache. Life-threatening symptoms of food poisoning are:- diarrhea presenting for more than three days, fever higher than 101.5 degrees F, difficulty speaking or seeing symptoms of severe dehydration which may include dry mouth, passing little to no urine, and difficulty keeping fluid, bloody urine. If these symptoms occur, visit your doctor immediately.

Food poisoning can be caused because of bacteria such as E.coli, Listeria, Salmonella. Salmonella is by far the biggest culprit of food poisoning. Parasites such as toxoplasma spread through food are very dangerous. Parasites can live in your digestive tract undetected for years. People with weak immune systems or pregnant women are at risk of serious side effects of food poisoning. Food poisoning can also be caused by a virus, norovirus which is also known as the Norwalk virus which causes over 19 million cases of food poisoning every year. In rare cases, it can be fatal.

Pathogens that are present in food cause food poison. Pathogens are present in almost all food but the heat and cooking process get rid of pathogens. Meat, eggs, or other dairy products are frequently contaminated which increases the chances of food poisoning.

Food poisoning can be treated at home and takes three to five days to resolve. If you have food poisoning then it is important to remain hydrated. Drinking plenty of water, sports drinks high in electrolytes can be helpful with this. Fruit juice and coconut water help in restoring carbohydrates. Caffetarian should be avoided as it irritates the digestive tract. Decaffeinated teas such as soothing herbs like chamomile, peppermint, and dandelion may help in calming an upset stomach. Plenty of rest is a must and fried food or food with high calories should be avoided. A person should eat light food such as porridge, soup, etc. If home remedies are not working then you should contact your doctor immediately.

By: Radhika Jaswal
Holy Child Senior Secondary School