Have you ever nearly died from food poisoning? If so, you are not alone. Almost everyone has had the experience at least once in their lives. People who are immune-suppressed or have autoimmune diseases are particularly vulnerable to this condition. Additionally, pregnant women are at a greater risk of food poisoning because of changes in the body’s metabolism. While the causes are unknown, food poisoning can be dangerous for both women and men.
Fortunately, most food-borne illnesses are completely preventable. Each year, one in six Americans suffers from food poisoning. The most common symptoms include vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. Mild cases will go away on their own, but severe cases can be so debilitating that they require medical attention. The most common causes of food-borne illness are bacteria and viruses. Most cases affect the digestive tract, but there are also parasites that can cause food-borne illness.
People who have experienced food-related illness should drink plenty of fluids and avoid eating anything until they are feeling better. However, if you’re unable to eat anything until you feel better, you can try eating bland bites until you’re fully recovered. It’s also important to wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly before eating them. A few days of rest and simple home remedies can help you recover faster from this condition.
A doctor can prescribe medication to relieve vomiting and nausea. Medications like loperamide (Imodium) are not used for treating severe food poisoning. These drugs prolong symptoms and can cause further health issues. Antibiotics are not used for viral causes of food poisoning, but they may be prescribed for severe bacterial infections. Antiparasitism medications may also be prescribed in certain circumstances. If you have experienced food poisoning, you can report it to your local environmental health department. Environmental health officers will investigate food premises and impose appropriate actions.
The most common cause of food poisoning is contamination with a bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. These bacteria normally cause skin infections but can be transferred through an infected person. When food is not kept hot enough, it multiplies and produces a toxin. Symptoms may start one to six hours after eating the food and can last for a day or more.
While all of these symptoms can occur, the most common complication is dehydration, which can be deadly if not treated quickly. Young children, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable. These people are more likely to dehydrate and experience severe illness. This is why it’s crucial to handle food properly. There are several things you can do to prevent food poisoning from becoming fatal.
