I think I have food poisoning: what should I do?

Food poisoning is illness caused by contaminated food or drink. Common features include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fever. The illness can spread fluid and salts from the body, especially when vomiting and diarrhoea happen together. The cause is not always clear from symptoms alone, and similar symptoms can occur with gastroenteritis or another condition.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution. If vomiting makes drinking difficult, pause briefly and try small sips again. Eat small portions when you feel able, choosing simple foods and avoiding alcohol. Wash hands carefully, clean shared bathroom surfaces and avoid preparing food for other people while you are unwell. A clinician or pharmacist can advise whether any medicine is suitable; some medicines are not appropriate for everyone.

Get urgent help if you cannot keep fluids down, feel confused or faint, pass very little urine, have blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or a high fever with marked weakness. Seek advice sooner for a young child, an older adult, pregnancy, or a long-term condition that increases dehydration risk. Medical care may include oral rehydration therapy or IV fluid therapy when drinking is not enough.

Ask how much fluid to take, whether you need testing, which foods and medicines are suitable, and what signs mean you should return for review.