Food Poisoning Treatment

Acute gastroenteritis is commonly known as food poisoning. In this condition, there is acute inflammation of the stomach lining and small bowel. This condition is often caused due to consuming food cooked in unhygienic conditions. It can also be caused by consuming foods like milk, meat, fish, desserts, etc. In this write up, we will concentrate on food poisoning treatment, but before that we will read in brief about the causes and symptoms of food poisoning.

Food Poisoning Causes

The main cause of food poisoning is contamination of food due to different bacteria. Meat and poultry may be carriers of bacteria which, when consumed, infects the person as well. Improper handling of food is also among the causes of food poisoning. This is often seen in grocery stores and restaurants, but it may also be seen at homes. If the person preparing does not take care of basic hygiene like washing hands before cooking, it can contaminate the food. Likewise, utensils, chopping boards are also carriers of bacteria. In case they are not cleaned properly, they can give rise to food poisoning signs. There are certain food products, which need to be preserved only under refrigeration. If adequate measures are not taken, they may become bacteria laden and in turn give rise to food poisoning. Raw foods often are carriers of bacteria, therefore, it is important to take care, if one wants to consume raw food. Consumption of contaminated water is amongst the most important causes of food poisoning.

Food Poisoning Symptoms

The symptoms of food poisoning often depend on the type of contamination, that the person has been exposed to. The quantity of the contaminated food also has a role to play in the severity of the condition. In some cases, the signs of food poisoning may be seen in short period of time, while in cases the condition may worsen gradually over a period of time. The most common symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramping. In most cases, the condition is not very serious. However, if the condition does not improve in about 48 hours, then the condition should not be neglected.

Treating Food Poisoning

One does not really need medical help for treating food poisoning, till the condition is not severe. The most important step one should follow is consume sufficient quantity of water, as people suffer from dehydration. Dehydration is caused due to loss of fluid, either due to vomiting and diarrhea. Adding salt and sugar to the water will help in replenishing the lost salts from the body. You may choose to drink water combined with the re-hydration salts available with the pharmacies. It is often seen, that the person does not suffer from the condition, as much as the person has to deal with dehydration. If a woman does suffer from food poisoning during pregnancy, then this measure should be followed to the 'T'.

When you are nauseous, or suffer from diarrhea, it is recommended that you do not eat any solid food, however, it is important that you consume a lot of fluids. The best food poisoning remedies is to sip frequent clear liquids. These liquids will also ensure you do not dehydrate yourself. However, it does not mean you can drink alcoholic, caffeinated or soft drinks. These measures should also be followed, to counter signs of food poisoning in children.

When you are able to tolerate fluids can you gradually start consuming plain foods. As far as possible, it is best to stick to simple foods like rice, cereals, etc. It is recommended that you do not consume meat for sometime, when you are treating food poisoning. Buttermilk can be given, as it will help to soothe the stomach lining. The bacteria in buttermilk and yogurt will also help in relieving the condition.

It is recommended that over the counter available medicines for diarrhea should not be taken. They can however, be taken under medical advice. If the condition is severe and you should seek medical help immediately. Depending on your condition, your health care professional will be in a better position to treat the condition.

For treating food poisoning, you may choose to try some home remedies. Herbal tea, ginger tea, lemon juice mixed with apple vinegar are among some of the home remedies. If a woman suffers from food poisoning during pregnancy, then it is best to seek medical opinion immediately, so that the infection does not cause any harm to the baby.

Disclaimer: This write up should not be treated as medical advice. It is only for informative purposes. Your health care professional will be in a better position to recommend the right kind of treatment for this condition.