Severe food poisoning: symptoms, care and warning signs

Food Poisoning is irritation or infection caused by contaminated food or drink. Vomiting, Diarrhoea, Nausea, Fever and Abdominal Pain may occur together. Severity is suggested by how much fluid is being lost, whether fluids stay down, the presence of blood, and how unwell the person appears. Young children, older adults, pregnant people and those with long-term conditions can become dehydrated more quickly.

Take frequent small sips of an Oral Rehydration Therapy drink if you can swallow and keep fluids down. Rest, wash hands carefully, and avoid preparing food for others while vomiting or diarrhoea continues. Eat small, plain meals when appetite returns. Do not use leftover antibiotics or medicines that stop diarrhoea without professional advice, especially if there is fever or blood. IV Fluid Therapy may be needed when dehydration is significant or drinking is not possible.

Get urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, very little urine, inability to keep fluids down, blood in vomit or stool, severe or worsening abdominal pain, or breathing difficulty. Seek prompt advice for a high or persistent fever, symptoms after suspected unsafe food, or illness in a vulnerable person. Keep the food packaging or details of the meal if available.

How can I replace the fluid and salts I have lost? Do I need testing or IV fluids? Which medicines are safe with my symptoms? How can I reduce the risk of spreading illness at home?