What should you know about stomach food poisoning?

Food poisoning is an illness caused by harmful germs or toxins in contaminated food or drink. A person may develop abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, or fever. Symptoms can begin after a delay, and people who ate the same food may not all feel ill. Read more about Food Poisoning, Abdominal Pain, Diarrhoea, Fever, Nausea, Vomiting.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, especially after vomiting or loose stools. Rest, and return to simple foods when you can tolerate them. Avoid preparing food for other people while you have diarrhoea or vomiting, and wash your hands carefully. Oral Rehydration Therapy can help replace water and salts; IV Fluid Therapy may be considered when drinking is not enough.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or trouble keeping fluids down. Contact a clinician if symptoms are worsening, dehydration signs appear, or fever is concerning. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with significant medical conditions may need earlier advice.

Ask which fluids are suitable, whether a medicine should be paused, and what symptoms should trigger urgent review. Mention recent meals, travel, sick contacts, the timing of symptoms, and how often you have vomited or passed stool.