Food Poisoning Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Food poisoning occurs when you consume contaminated food or drinks. It can result from bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins that affect the gastrointestinal system. Symptoms can begin within hours of eating the infected item and usually include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and fever.

While many cases resolve without medical intervention, severe cases require prompt medical attention. Staying hydrated and resting are essential during recovery. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company helps cover diagnostic and treatment costs related to food poisoning at its 18,400+ partner hospitals, ensuring swift access to care when needed.

What is Food Poisoning?

Food poisoning is an illness caused by eating contaminated, spoiled, or toxic food. Harmful organisms like bacteria (e.g., Salmonella), viruses (e.g. Norovirus), and parasites can contaminate food during processing, handling, or storage. Once ingested, these pathogens cause inflammation in the stomach and intestines. Most people recover without treatment, but vulnerable groups—like infants, the elderly, or those with weakened immunity—may need medical help. Health insurance plans by Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company makes expert treatment more affordable and ensures timely access to tests and treatment

Common Causes of Food Poisoning

Food poisoning typically results from:

• Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria
• Viruses: Norovirus, Hepatitis A
• Parasites: Giardia, Toxoplasma
• Toxins: From spoiled seafood or improperly stored food

Improper food handling, undercooked meat, unwashed vegetables, or cross-contamination during preparation are common culprits. Contaminated water or dirty utensils also contribute. Understanding these causes is key to preventing future infections.

Types of Food Poisoning

There are several types of food poisoning, each linked to specific pathogens:

1. Bacterial Food Poisoning – Caused by Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, or Campylobacter. Common in undercooked meat and unpasteurised dairy.
2. Viral Food Poisoning – Often from Norovirus or Hepatitis A. Spreads through contaminated water or unhygienic food handling.
3. Parasitic Food Poisoning – Caused by parasites like Giardia or Toxoplasma. Often found in undercooked meat or contaminated produce.
4. Toxin-Related Food Poisoning – Comes from spoiled seafood (e.g. shellfish poisoning), or bacterial toxins in improperly stored foods.

Each type presents with different symptoms and may require specific food poisoning treatments, including antibiotics or antiparasitic medication.

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Symptoms of Food Poisoning

Symptoms vary by cause but often include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever and chills
• Headache and muscle aches

Symptoms may appear within hours or up to a few days after consuming contaminated food. Most cases resolve in 1–3 days, but severe dehydration or high fever warrants medical care.

Diagnosis: How is Food Poisoning Identified?

Doctors diagnose food poisoning based on symptoms, recent food history, and a physical exam. In severe cases, stool samples, blood tests, or imaging may be done to identify the pathogen. Quick diagnosis helps determine whether antibiotics or hospitalisation is required.

Reasons for Food Poisoning

Several factors contribute to foodborne illness:

• Improper Cooking: Undercooked meats may carry harmful bacteria.
• Contaminated Water: Drinking or using unclean water in cooking.
• Unsafe Storage: Spoiled food or expired items.
• Unhygienic Food Handling: Touching food with dirty hands or unclean surfaces.
• Eating Raw Foods: Like sushi or unwashed fruits and vegetables.

Travel, street food, or dining in unsanitary places increases risk. Knowing these reasons helps in prevention and early detection.

Treatment Options for Food Poisoning

Most cases require rest and hydration. Treatment includes:

• Rehydration: Oral rehydration salts (ORS) or IV fluids in severe cases
• Medication: Anti-diarrhoeal or antiemetic drugs
• Antibiotics: Only if a bacterial infection is confirmed
• Dietary Care: Avoid solid food initially and resume light meals gradually

In critical situations, hospitalisation may be necessary, especially for children and the elderly.

Stomach Flu vs Food Poisoning

Stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis) and food poisoning share symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea but differ in cause. Stomach flu is a viral infection spread through contact with infected people or surfaces. Food poisoning is typically caused by contaminated food or drink. Stomach flu may last longer (up to 10 days), while food poisoning usually resolves in 1–3 days. Proper diagnosis helps guide treatment.

Over-the-Counter Medications and Home Remedies

Mild cases can be managed at home with:

• ORS or electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration
• Paracetamol for fever
• Probiotics to restore gut health
• BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast)

Avoid anti-diarrhoeal drugs unless prescribed. Ginger tea and peppermint water can ease nausea. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor for further food infection medicine.

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Preventive Measures to Avoid Food Poisoning

• Wash hands and surfaces before cooking
• Cook meat and seafood thoroughly
• Store food at the correct temperature
• Avoid raw or expired foods
• Drink clean, filtered water

Regular food hygiene, proper cooking, and awareness of contamination risks are the best defences against foodborne illness.

Conclusion

Food poisoning is preventable and treatable. Recognising early symptoms, practising good hygiene, and seeking timely medical help are key. For serious cases, insurance support from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company ensures you receive proper care without delay or financial strain—thanks to their network of 18,400+ hospitals.

FAQs

When should I seek medical attention for food poisoning?

Seek help if you experience high fever, blood in stool, prolonged vomiting, or signs of dehydration such as dizziness and dry mouth.

Are antibiotics always necessary for treating food poisoning?

No. Antibiotics are only prescribed for bacterial infections and not for viral or mild cases of food poisoning.

Does health insurance cover treatments for food poisoning?

Yes, plans from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company typically cover doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and hospital stays for foodborne illnesses.

How long does food poisoning typically last?

Most cases resolve within 1 to 3 days. Severe infections may last longer and require medical intervention.

What is the first aid for food poisoning?

Keep hydrated with ORS, rest, and avoid solid foods initially. Monitor symptoms and seek medical help if they worsen or persist.

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