PP
1
1
Mild severity
· Gastroenterology
Food Poisoning
Acute gastroenteritis · Bad food or water
Bacteria, viruses or toxins from contaminated food/water cause vomiting and diarrhea. Hydration is the cornerstone; antibiotics only if needed.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- Very common in India
- Typical age
- Any age
- Outlook
- Self-limiting
- System
- Gut
Reviewed by a verified Gastroenterology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Salmonella, E. coli, Shigella
- Norovirus, rotavirus
- Pre-formed Staph toxin
- Unhygienic food handling
- Untreated water
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Vomiting, watery diarrhea
- Crampy abdominal pain
- Low-grade fever
- Dehydration signs
- Bloody stool in invasive infection
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Oral rehydration solution
- Anti-emetics if needed
- Antibiotics only if bloody / typhoid
- Probiotics may shorten
- Hospitalize severe dehydration
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Drink only bottled / boiled water
- Eat freshly cooked, hot food
- Wash hands before eating
- Avoid roadside salads
Do’s
- Sip ORS through the day
- Avoid sugary fluids
- Re-introduce bland food gradually
- Wash hands after toilet
Don’ts
- Drink only sweet drinks
- Take antibiotics without doctor
- Eat raw salads roadside
- Ignore signs of severe dehydration
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
Top specialists
See all gastroenterology doctors Top 4 doctors for Food Poisoning
Ranked by patient rating, years of experience and review volume. All verified by MediConsult’s clinical team.
JP
2
2
AS
3
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VM
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.