Food poisoning, also known as foodborne illness, comes from improper food handling and cooking. It is caused by eating contaminated food from infectious organisms, including bacteria, viruses and parasites.
Food poisoning is very common, affecting more than 3 million Americans each year.
Do I have Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning symptoms may include cramping, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. You may experience:
- Pain in the abdomen or rectum
- Whole body chills, dehydration, dizziness, fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, weakness, sweating
- Gastrointestinal bloating, gagging, indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps
- Headache
If you experience any of the following, you should see your doctor:
- High fever of 101.5°F+
- Blood in stools
- Prolonged vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down
- Dehydration signs, including decreased urination, dry mouth/throat, and dizziness when standing
- Diarrhea that lasts more than 3 days
How do you get Food Poisoning?
Foodborne illness comes from consuming food that has been contaminated with germs or toxic substances. There is a delay before symptoms begin, usually hours or days.
What Germs Cause Food Poisoning?
Norovirus and salmonella are two of the most common germs that cause foodborne illness. These germs will pass through the stomach to the intestine, where they will attach and begin to multiply.
How can you Avoid Food Poisoning?
You can avoid foodborne illness by following these four food safety rules:
- Clean, wash hands and surfaces often
- Separate, don’t cross-contaminate
- Cook, to the right temperature
- Chill, refrigerate promptly
Click here to learn more about these four food safety tips.
Food poisoning can range from mild to severe and is usually self-diagnosable. You should consult a doctor for medical advice if you experience severe symptoms (listed above).
Need a doctor? Call Mountain Peaks at 801-724-9840. You can make an appointment with one of our award-winning doctors over-the-phone, or walk-in.