I have food poisoning: what should I know?

Foodborne illness irritates the digestive system and may start after contaminated food or drink. Symptoms can include loose stools, vomiting, cramps, nausea, and fever. Several illnesses can look alike, so timing, recent meals, sick contacts, travel, and symptoms in others who ate the same food can help a clinician assess the situation.

Take small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solution; this replaces fluid and salts lost through vomiting or diarrhoea. If vomiting follows a large drink, pause briefly and try smaller sips. Eat light foods when you can, rest, wash hands carefully, and avoid preparing food for others while unwell. Do not start antibiotics or anti-diarrhoeal medicine without suitable advice.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, very little urine, inability to keep fluids down, blood in vomit or stool, severe or localised abdominal pain, or a high or persistent fever. Get medical advice sooner for a young child, older adult, pregnancy, or a condition that increases dehydration risk. IV fluid therapy may be needed when drinking is not enough.

Record when symptoms began, how often you have vomited or passed stool, your ability to drink and urinate, fever, pain location, recent foods, travel, and anyone else affected. Ask whether you need testing, oral rehydration therapy, or review of regular medicines.