About this condition
Food poisoning commonly describes acute symptoms after eating contaminated food. The cause may involve microorganisms or the toxins they produce; symptoms do not necessarily begin immediately after a meal.
What this topic means
The time between exposure and illness varies by pathogen or toxin. Not all nausea after eating is food poisoning, and the cause is often difficult to confirm without clinical context.
When to seek medical advice
Nausea, vomiting, loose stools, cramping and weakness may occur, sometimes with fever. Reduced urination, dizziness or inability to keep liquids down suggest dehydration.
Options and limitations
Acute intestinal infection, medicine-related symptoms or another abdominal problem can look similar. Repeated vomiting or abdominal pain should not automatically be attributed to a recent meal.
Assessment and preparation
The clinician reviews recent food, other affected people, contact history, medicines, hydration and illness severity. Laboratory tests are performed only when they are clinically indicated.
Treatment, risks and follow-up
Oral rehydration and adequate fluid replacement are often important. Antibiotics are not indicated for every foodborne illness and may be harmful when prescribed without an appropriate diagnosis.
When urgent help is needed
Blood in the stool, repeated vomiting with inability to drink, severe dehydration, fainting, confusion or very strong abdominal pain requires urgent assessment. Call 103 for dangerous symptoms.
Related information
Signs and symptoms
Nausea, vomiting, loose stools, cramping and weakness may occur, sometimes with fever. Reduced urination, dizziness or inability to keep liquids down suggest dehydration.
Diagnosis and tests
The clinician reviews recent food, other affected people, contact history, medicines, hydration and illness severity. Laboratory tests are performed only when they are clinically indicated.
Care and treatment approaches
Oral rehydration and adequate fluid replacement are often important. Antibiotics are not indicated for every foodborne illness and may be harmful when prescribed without an appropriate diagnosis.
When to seek urgent care
Blood in the stool, repeated vomiting with inability to drink, severe dehydration, fainting, confusion or very strong abdominal pain requires urgent assessment. Call 103 for dangerous symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Must symptoms start immediately after a meal?
No. Onset can be delayed and differs depending on the pathogen or toxin.
Should I take antibiotics straight away?
No. Most suspected food poisoning does not justify antibiotics without assessment.
When must I seek urgent care?
Blood in stool, dehydration, inability to drink or rapid worsening needs urgent attention.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
