What should you know about most common food poisoning?

Food poisoning is an infection or irritation caused by contaminated food or drink. Different germs and toxins can produce similar symptoms, so the symptoms alone do not identify the exact cause. A short illness may settle as the body clears the irritant, while ongoing fluid loss can leave you weak, dizzy or unusually thirsty. Read about [Food Poisoning](/conditions/food-poisoning/) and related symptoms such as [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/), [Vomiting](/symptoms/vomiting/) and [Fever](/symptoms/fever/).

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution, especially after loose stools or vomiting. [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) replaces water and salts more effectively than relying on large drinks at once. Rest, eat light foods when able, and avoid preparing food for other people while you are unwell. Keep track of urination, alertness and whether fluids stay down. Severe dehydration may need [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/) in a medical setting.

Seek urgent medical help if you cannot keep fluids down, feel faint or confused, pass very little urine, have blood in stool or vomit, severe abdominal pain, or a high or persistent fever. Arrange medical advice when symptoms are worsening rather than easing, or when a child, older adult, pregnant person or someone with a long-term illness is affected. [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/) that is severe or localised deserves prompt assessment.

Ask what fluids are suitable, whether you need testing, which medicines to avoid, and how to recognise dehydration. Tell the clinician when symptoms began, what you ate, whether anyone else became ill, and whether you have travelled or taken antibiotics.