All are very well familiar with the term food poisoning. There are many doubts regarding food poisoning including its causes, symptoms as well as prevention. In this article, we are going to cover all these topics.

Food poisoning refers to the illness that is caused by bacteria or other toxic elements in food. Is usually associated with vomiting and diarrhea. 

What are the causes of food poisoning?

One of the most important and main causes of food poisoning is the contamination of food. Other than contamination there are also other causes of food poisoning including: 

• Consuming and cooked or raw food, especially meat and poultry
• Unpasteurized dairy products just milk, curd, cheese
• Fishes that are chemically preserved
• Fruits and vegetables

What does food poisoning feel like when it starts?

Symptoms of food poisoning are sometimes misunderstood with other health issues. So it is very important to know the correct symptoms associated with food poisoning.

Food poisoning symptoms can vary accordingly due to the food that causes food poisoning as well as the sources of contamination.

But in most cases, food poisoning can cause the following symptoms such as:

• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal cramps or sometimes heavy abdominal pain
• Fever
• Tiredness

Usually, the signs and symptoms can start after hours of eating a particular food item. In some cases, these symptoms can even start after weeks. 

But you should consider consulting a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms such as:

• Frequent vomiting
• Diarrhoea which lasts more than 3 days
• Body temperature
• Signs of excessive dehydration such as frequent thirst.
• Blurry vision
• Muscle weakness

How do you deal with food poisoning?

We can prevent food poisoning by following some simple, but important steps:

Thoroughly wash your hands before and after eating

Always wash your hands with lukewarm water by using soap or hand wash. This is one of the very important steps as germs and bacteria that causes food poisoning can enter your body through your hands.

Make sure to clean the utensils

Use hot water to clean utensils. Always use a dishwasher or soap liquid to clean utensils and other surfaces such as cutting boards etc.

Cook foods to the appropriate temperature

Food poisoning can be a result of swimming foods that are not at the appropriate temperature. Cooking foods to the right temperature can kill the bacteria and other microorganisms present in the food. And thus it makes the food safe to eat.

Dispose it, when in doubt

If you are not sure about the quality of food including its usability, preparation, storage; then discard the food item. Don’t consume a food item that you are unsure about.

Food poisoning is a serious issue, especially a potentially life-threatening issue for young children, older adults, pregnant ladies and people with weak immune systems. It is also very important to consume foods that are safe for our bodies. Consider consulting a doctor as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with food poisoning.