Diagnosis of Food Poisoning

A clinician asks when nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain or fever began, what you ate, whether anyone else became ill, and whether you have travelled or taken antibiotics. They check for dehydration and examine your abdomen. Mild illness often does not need a stool test. Testing may be considered when symptoms are severe, continue longer than expected, contain blood, follow travel, affect someone medically vulnerable, or might represent an infection requiring specific advice.

Sip fluids frequently; an oral rehydration solution can replace water and salts lost through vomiting or diarrhoea. Rest, wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for other people while unwell. Keep a note of symptom onset, foods shared with others and any medicines taken. If you cannot keep fluids down, a clinician may discuss IV Fluid Therapy.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, severe or worsening abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or difficulty keeping any fluid down. Arrange prompt assessment for a high fever, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, or illness in a young child, older adult, pregnant person or someone with a weakened immune system. Abdominal Pain, Diarrhoea, Fever, Nausea and Vomiting can help you describe what is happening.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest food poisoning, whether a stool sample is useful, which fluids are suitable, and which warning signs should prompt reassessment.