Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is an illness brought on by ingesting foods contaminated with micro-organisms, toxins, chemicals, or poisonous fish, shellfish, or plants (mushrooms). This illness affects the digestive tract, however, botulism - a detrimental form of food poisoning, affects the nervous system and may cause respiratory failure if undiagnosed and treated. Many believe the risks are greater at a social gathering or restaurant; however, food poisoning may result from improper storage and handling of food, including inadequate refrigeration and touching food with soiled hands, including improper sterilization and sanitation after preparing raw meats because we sometimes leave live bacteria on countertops, utensils, or cutting boards. Restaurants have warnings on their menus about consuming raw meats, however, many still prefer undercooked or medium rare steaks, your risks are greater. When the overgrowth of live bacterial toxins invades our intestines, we are then contaminated with live micro-organisms. Within 48 hours, you may experience sudden, acute gastrointestinal discomfort. Other symptoms are diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, headaches, and bloody stools.

In social settings, it is difficult to prove food poisoning unless several people develop similar symptoms after sharing a meal or eating in the same restaurant. In the home, if the entire family takes ill after a meal, this is most likely food poisoning. The illness often subsides spontaneously after one to five days; however, severe or persistent symptoms need a doctor's treatment and hospitalization. There are preventive measurements we can take to decrease food poisoning in all atmospheres, washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before preparing food, and properly handling clean, cooked, and refrigerated foods. Avoid buying food products that are rusty, bulging, dented, or leaking. If you suspect contaminated food, never taste it. Do not consume unpasteurized dairy products. Leftovers are tasty, however, throw away all questionable leftovers. There is a 48 hours rule, dispose of all leftovers. Keep the refrigerator and all preparation areas properly sterilized. If you suspect food poisoning, drink plenty of fluids, preferably a drink containing electrolytes and sugar to prevent dehydration and replace loss minerals. In severe cases, intravenous fluids and antibiotics may be prescribed. Seek professional treatment if you develop a fever 102 F along with other life threatening symptoms.

Tips taken from Maureen O'Sullivan, Senior Writer, of The Johns Hopkins Complete Home Guide to Symptoms & Remedies