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Food Poisoning
Medical Questions » Food Poisoning
| Name: Food Poisoning |
| Also known as: |
| An illness involving the intestine caused by eating contaminated food. |
Causes of Food Poisoning
Bacteria, or a toxin produced by bacteria, present in contaminated food. Many different types of bacteria may be responsible. Foods that are particularly likely to be responsible are dairy products, fish, chicken or other meat that has been inadequately refrigerated, fried foods, meat dishes that have been reheated, and stale bread. |
Symptoms of Food Poisoning
Vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, fever and stomach cramps. Small amounts of blood may be vomited or passed in the motions. Most attacks develop suddenly within one to eight hours of eating the contaminated food, but may take up to 24 hours. |
Tests for Food Poisoning
No specific investigation can diagnose the cause in an individual, but a suspect food can be tested to see if it is contaminated. Strongly suspected when a number of people are affected simultaneously. May be confused with gastroenteritis. |
Treatment for Food Poisoning
Usually no treatment is necessary other than a clear fluid diet. Antibiotics are rarely necessary.
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Complications of Food Poisoning of its treatment
In the very young and elderly, dehydration may be a problem, and intravenous drips in hospital may be required. |
Likely Outcome of Food Poisoning
Most attacks settle within six to twelve hours. |
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