Food poisoning is caused by foods and/or fluids contaminated with virus, bacteria, parasites, or chemicals.
Viruses are the most common cause of food poisoning in America. Annually, about 128,000 people are admitted to hospitals and about 3,000 die from all causes of food poisoning.
Undercooked poultry meat is the biggest culprit of food poisoning, along with fruits, vegetables, nuts and, seeds.
Symptoms may appear within 5 to 72 hours after infection. The most common symptoms will be nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is sometimes accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, and/or cramps.
In cases of severe food poisoning, dehydration, blood in stools, and neurological symptoms such as blurry vision, weakness, and tingling sensations may be present.
Some people are at higher risk to contract food poisoning, including small children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with existing medical conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, as well as those who are immunocompromised.
If you or anyone you know contract food poisoning, here are the first aid protocols you can follow:
Rest
Allow the body to recuperate and recover in its own time.
Prevent Dehydration
Start with small sips of clear fluids and gradually drink more. If nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea persist for more than 24 hours, drink an oral rehydration solution.
Manage Nausea and Vomiting
These are normal body responses to toxins, and when managed properly, they should go away on their own. Avoid eating solids, and oily or spicy foods until the vomiting stops. Once it subsides, eat light, bland foods such as soda crackers and take small, frequent sips of water.
Assess
See a doctor if symptoms of severe food poisoning are present. Seek emergency services if response levels diminish or when there is loss of consciousness.
Read the full article by Train Aid here for more information on how to manage food poisoning when it occurs.
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