Food poisoning

Overview

Bacteria and other germs in food can cause food poisoning. This causes gastrointestinal symptoms, mainly vomiting and diarrhoea. Ensure a sufficient fluid intake. To prevent food poisoning, be careful when buying, preparing and eating food. Consult a doctor if the symptoms don’t abate after a few days.

Symptoms

• Stomach ache
• Nausea, vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Fever

These symptoms can appear just a few hours after a meal.

Causes and treatment

Causes

Food that is contaminated by bacteria can cause food poisoning. The agents include:

• Bacteria that inhabit food
• Poison produced by bacteria (toxins)

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

The condition usually heals by itself and medication is seldom needed.

Possible tests

• Blood tests
• Stool analysis

Possible therapies

• Intravenous fluid replacement
• Medication (antibiotics)

What can I do myself?

• Drink plenty of water and tea
• Rest your body
• Eat easily digestible food (e.g. rusks, soup)

When to see a doctor?

• If symptoms continue for longer than 2 to 3 days
• Bloody diarrhoea
• If small children, pregnant women or older persons are afflicted

Synonyms

Food poisoning, poisoning, Lebensmittelntoxikation