Avoiding the Bad Taste of Food Poisoning
Even the healthiest foods can become unhealthy if improperly handled, cooked or stored. In the United States approximately 10,000 people die each year from food poisoning, and many more become ill and require medical attention.
What is food poisoning?
"Food poisoning can be caused by several different bacteria, such as salmonella or botulism," says Dr. Helene Connolly, an emergency physician in Chicago. "Although certain types of food poisoning can be fatal, most cases run their course in a couple of days."
According to Dr. Connolly, food poisoning symptoms usually begin from two hours to two days after eating the tainted food. The symptoms are similar to those of the flu and should be treated the same. They include headache, nausea, diarrhea and/or vomiting. However, fever is more likely to occur with the flu.
Is food poisoning serious?
Certain symptoms may signal a more serious case of food poisoning. Seek immediate medical treatment if you experience such severe vomiting that you become dehydrated. Most adults can handle one day without nutrition, but after that, continued vomiting requires medical attention. High fever also can indicate a more serious illness.
What foods should I avoid?
"Any food can carry a bacteria," says Dr. Connolly, "but meat, poultry and shellfish are the worst offenders, so you should always use special care when preparing or storing these foods." She also warns that infants can get botulism from honey, even a small amount. "Adults can easily combat the botulism in honey, but infants are still susceptible," she added.
To help prevent food poisoning, always follow recommended precautions for food handling and preparation. Check dates on food labels, refrigerate raw foods and leftovers promptly, and thoroughly wash hands and utensils immediately after handling raw foods.
What should I do if I get food poisoning?
"To prevent dehydration," Dr. Connolly says, "it's important to begin sipping water or diluted juice as soon as active vomiting has decreased. Be aware, adults can handle dehydration much better than small children."
"If symptoms continue for more than 24 Hours, or if you are unable to tolerate any fluids, contact your primary care doctor or visit the emergency department," advises Dr. Connolly.
