Lobster food poisoning symptoms

Foodborne illness after lobster may result from germs or toxins introduced during harvesting, storage, preparation or serving. Symptoms can begin after a delay, and the timing does not by itself prove that lobster was the cause. Other people who ate the same food may be unwell, but this is not required.

Watch for repeated vomiting, frequent watery stools, dry mouth, intense thirst, reduced urination, dizziness or unusual weakness. Fever can occur with infection. An allergic reaction is a different problem and may cause hives, swelling, wheezing or breathing difficulty rather than mainly digestive illness.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, especially after vomiting or diarrhoea. Resume light foods when you can tolerate them. Avoid preparing food for others while unwell, wash your hands carefully and keep a note of when symptoms began and what you ate. A clinician may recommend Oral Rehydration Therapy; severe dehydration may need IV Fluid Therapy.

Seek urgent care for fainting, confusion, severe or worsening abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or inability to keep fluids down. Get medical advice promptly for signs of dehydration, persistent fever, or symptoms that are worsening. Babies, older adults, pregnant people and those with significant medical conditions may need earlier assessment.

Ask whether your pattern fits food poisoning, how to replace lost fluid, whether testing is needed, which medicines to avoid, and whether an allergy should be assessed if symptoms followed shellfish.