How long food poisoning usually lasts

Food poisoning can cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and sometimes fever. Some cases settle within a short period, while others take longer, especially when vomiting or diarrhoea continues. Symptoms may begin soon after a contaminated meal or later, so the timing of one meal does not always identify the cause. Persistent symptoms can also have explanations other than food poisoning.

The main concern during the illness is loss of fluid and salts. Older adults, young children, pregnant people, and anyone with a long-term illness can become unwell more quickly. [Food Poisoning](/conditions/food-poisoning/) can overlap with other causes of [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/).

Take frequent small sips of fluid, particularly after vomiting or a loose stool. [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) can replace water and salts more effectively than relying on very sweet drinks. Eat small, simple meals when you feel able and rest. Wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for others while symptoms continue. Do not start antibiotics or anti-diarrhoeal medicine without advice, because the right choice depends on the suspected cause.

Seek urgent care for fainting, confusion, severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician for signs of dehydration such as very little urine, a dry mouth, or worsening weakness, or for a persistent [Fever](/symptoms/fever/). Severe fluid loss may require [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/). Review is also sensible when [Vomiting](/symptoms/vomiting/), [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/), or [Nausea](/symptoms/nausea/) is not easing.

Ask how much fluid to take, whether you need testing, which medicines are safe for you, and what duration or symptom change should trigger another review.