What does abdominal pain feel like with food poisoning?

The pain may be spread across the abdomen rather than fixed in one small spot. It can tighten before a bowel movement, ease briefly afterwards, and return in waves. Nausea, loose stools, vomiting, bloating, and a raised temperature may occur at the same time. The pattern can vary with the germ or toxin involved, so pain alone cannot identify the cause.

Notice when the discomfort began, whether you can keep fluids down, and whether the stool contains blood. These details help a clinician judge dehydration and other possible causes.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. If nausea is present, sipping slowly may be easier than drinking a large amount. Rest, and return to light foods such as rice, toast, bananas, or soup when your appetite returns. Avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen the cramps.

Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before preparing food. Do not prepare food for other people while vomiting or having diarrhoea.

Seek urgent help for severe or steadily worsening pain, a hard or swollen abdomen, fainting, confusion, blood in vomit or stool, or an inability to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician if symptoms are not settling, urine becomes unusually dark or infrequent, or you are concerned about a child, older adult, pregnancy, or a long-term health condition.

Ask whether your symptoms fit food poisoning, whether you need testing, which fluids are suitable, and which medicines should be avoided if you have diarrhoea or vomiting.