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Overview
Food poisoning and gastroenteritis are infections of the gut from contaminated food or water, causing vomiting and diarrhoea that usually settle within a few days. The real danger is dehydration, especially in children and the elderly. Most cases need fluids, not antibiotics.
Symptoms
- Diarrhoea, sometimes watery
- Nausea and vomiting
- Crampy abdominal pain
- Fever
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
Causes & risk factors
- Food left out too long or poorly reheated
- Contaminated water or ice
- Undercooked meat, eggs or seafood
- Poor hand hygiene during food preparation
Treatment & self-care
Replace lost fluids with ORS or frequent sips of clean water, continue light meals as tolerated, and rest; most cases resolve within 48 to 72 hours. Avoid routine antibiotics and anti-diarrhoea tablets unless a doctor prescribes them. Children should continue breastfeeding or feeding alongside ORS and zinc as advised.
See a doctor urgently if
- Blood or mucus in the stool
- Signs of dehydration: sunken eyes, dry mouth, little urine
- High fever or symptoms beyond three days
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting that prevents any fluid intake
Frequently asked questions
- What are the first signs of Food Poisoning & Gastroenteritis?
- Early signs often include diarrhoea, sometimes watery, nausea and vomiting, crampy abdominal pain. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
- Can Food Poisoning & Gastroenteritis be treated?
- Replace lost fluids with ORS or frequent sips of clean water, continue light meals as tolerated, and rest; most cases resolve within 48 to 72 hours. Avoid routine antibiotics and anti-diarrhoea tablets unless a doctor prescribes them. Children should continue breastfeeding or feeding alongside ORS and zinc as advised.
- When should I see a doctor about Food Poisoning & Gastroenteritis?
- See a doctor promptly if you notice: blood or mucus in the stool; signs of dehydration: sunken eyes, dry mouth, little urine; high fever or symptoms beyond three days; severe abdominal pain; vomiting that prevents any fluid intake.