Eating contaminated or spoiled food or drinks can sometimes lead to food poisoning, commonly caused by the bacteria E.coli and salmonella and even viruses. While most food poisoning cases start to show symptoms within the first few hours, it can take some instances days, even a month, before the symptoms start. Listed below are six of the most common symptoms of food poisoning.
Vomiting and Nausea
Vomiting and feeling nausea are usually the first symptoms to appears when you have food poisoning. When you have food poisoning, vomiting is one way that your body is trying to remove the harmful bacteria or viruses from your system. Vomiting and nausea can make you dehydrated, so be sure that you drink plenty of fluids. Eating crackers or broth might help calm your stomach and help you maintain your strength as your body is fighting off the food poisoning. If you notice that you have blood in the vomit, get medical attention immediately.
Diarrhea
Like vomiting, diarrhea can be one of the first symptoms of your food poisoning and is also a way that your body is trying to remove the bad food from your system. While this can be a particularly distressing and uncomfortable symptom, it is essential to go through for your recovery. Diarrhea can also be dehydrating for your body, so be sure to drink plenty of water. Like vomiting, you should seek medical attention immediately if you notice any blood in your diarrhea.
Fever
Having a fever can be a very dangerous symptom of food poisoning. When your body starts fighting food poisoning, it tends to heat up to kill viruses or bacteria. Fevers often drain your body of energy and can cause you to sweat. Be sure that you are staying hydrated and eating if you have a fever. You might even be able to find relief by taking some medications or by doing cold compresses to cool you down. People who have mild cases of food poisoning usually have a low-grade fever. However, if your fever is constant and very high, you might need medical attention.
Stomach Cramps
Another symptom of food poisoning is stomach cramps. Muscle contractions cause this uncomfortable symptom as your body is trying to remove the contaminated food through vomiting or diarrhea physically.
Appetite Loss
An unfortunate side effect of food poisoning is the loss of appetite. A loss of appetite can happen while you are experiencing symptoms, and after you have recovered from your food poisoning. While you are still showing signs of food poisoning, you will most likely not have an appetite due to vomiting and diarrhea. Try eating crackers or a bland soup or broth to help maintain your strength. After your symptoms are over, your body might still reject food that is similar to the food that caused your symptoms in the first place.
Weakness and Fatigue
You will become much weaker as a result of your body fighting your food poisoning. Weakness and fatigue can sometimes be the worst symptoms. It might be difficult for you to concentrate on work or even do simple tasks around your home. Instead, take some time to rest, usually a couple of days. Sleeping will help your body focus on fighting food poisoning. You should drink plenty of water and eat as your body will need energy, and dehydration and low blood sugar might make your symptoms worse and your body weaker.
These are the most common symptom of food poisoning. Most symptoms last about three days. If your symptoms are severe or last longer than three days, you should seek medical attention immediately.
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