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Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is illness from eating food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses or their toxins. It usually causes vomiting and diarrhoea that settle within a few days.
Causes & risk factors
- Bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli or Campylobacter
- Viruses such as norovirus and rotavirus
- Toxins in food left out too long
- Contaminated or untreated water
- Poor hand and kitchen hygiene
Common symptoms
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
- Tummy cramps
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness from dehydration
Tests & diagnosis
- Usually none — diagnosis is clinical
- Stool test if symptoms are severe or prolonged
- CBC (if unwell)
- Electrolytes (if dehydrated)
Treatment & management
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Oral rehydration salts (ORS) to replace lost salts and water
- Eat light, plain food once vomiting settles
- Avoid anti-diarrhoeal medicines if there is blood or high fever
- Antibiotics only for specific bacterial infections, on medical advice
When to see a doctor urgently
- Signs of dehydration — very little urine, sunken eyes, extreme thirst
- Blood in vomit or stool
- High fever or diarrhoea lasting more than a few days
- Symptoms in a baby, elderly or pregnant person, or someone very unwell
Frequently asked questions
How long does food poisoning last?
Most cases settle within 1-3 days. See a doctor if you cannot keep fluids down, become dehydrated, or have blood in your stool or a high fever.
Should I take antibiotics for food poisoning?
Usually not — most cases are viral or self-limiting. Antibiotics are only for certain bacterial infections and must be prescribed. Rehydration is the main treatment.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.