The summer is here and so the chances of food poisoning is high.

Did you know, “Why does food poisoning happen more in the summer?

The warmer temperature creates an ideal environment for bacteria and other pathogens to grow & multiply, making it easier for food to become contaminated.

It is a common yet potentially dangerous condition that can lead to severe illness or even death if not treated properly.

Causes & Symptoms of Food Poisoning in summer

Food poisoning is caused by ingesting food or drink that contains harmful pathogens. These pathogens can include bacteria, viruses, or even parasites, each causing a different form of foodborne illness.

Uncooked or undercooked chicken, like other raw meats carry harmful bacteria or pathogens, which make you sick.

The symptoms of food poisoning can vary widely depending on the type of pathogen causing the illness.

However, common food poisoning symptoms typically include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Fever (in some cases)
• Weakness or fatigue

While the symptoms usually appear within hours of consuming contaminated food, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days for symptoms to manifest, depending on the type of food poisoning.

The severity of the symptoms also varies from mild to severe.

If your symptoms are particularly severe or last longer than a few days, it’s recommended to consult our physician.

Symptoms you shouldn’t ignore are:

• Dehydration
• High fever
• Blood in your stool
• Severe abdominal pain

Stomach Flu vs. Food Poisoning

People often confuse food poisoning with the stomach flu (also known as viral gastroenteritis). While both conditions share similar symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, the main difference lies in the cause:

• Stomach Flu: Caused by viral infections, often norovirus or rotavirus, leading to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
• Food Poisoning: Caused by consuming contaminated food, resulting in similar symptoms but often accompanied by more severe digestive distress and dehydration.

The treatment for both conditions is usually focused on rehydration and rest, but food poisoning may require specific treatments based on the underlying cause.

When to see a doctor

Infants and children

Vomiting and diarrhea can quickly cause low levels of body fluids, also called dehydration, in infants and children. This can cause serious illness in infants.

Call your child’s health care provider if your child’s symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea and any of the following:

• Unusual changes in behavior or thinking.
• Excessive thirst.
• Little or no urination.
• Weakness.
• Dizziness.
• Diarrhea that lasts more than a day.
• Vomiting often.
• Stools that have blood or pus.
• Stools that are black or tarry.
• Severe pain in the stomach or rectum.
• Any fever in children under 2 years of age.
• Fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius) or higher in older children.
• History of other medical problems.

Adults

Adults should see a health care provider or get emergency care if the following occur:

• Nervous system symptoms, such as blurry vision, muscle weakness and tingling of skin.
• Changes in thinking or behavior.
• Fever of 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 degrees Celsius).
• Vomiting often.
• Diarrhea that lasts more than three days.
• Symptoms of dehydration — excessive thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness.

Food Poisoning Treatment

Managing symptoms and preventing dehydration are the key.

Recovery from food poisoning varies depending on its severity. Mild cases may resolve within 1-2 days, while more severe cases may take longer. To speed up recovery:

1. Hydrate Well: Diarrhea and vomiting can cause the body to lose a significant amount of fluids and electrolytes.

• Sip water throughout the day. Try to at least drink 3 litres of water.
• Drink ORS solution.
• Avoid sugary drinks, coffee, and alcohol.

1. Take Rest as much as possible
2. Avoid solid foods until you feel better.
3. Take medications as prescribed.

 

Best Home Remedies for Food Poisoning

Home remedies doesn’t treat food poisoning but can subtle the symptoms.

1. • Ginger tea: Known for its anti-nausea properties and so can help settle an upset stomach.
   • Apple cider vinegar: A natural remedy believed to aid digestion and reduce symptoms of nausea.
   • Lemon water: Drinking lemon water may help neutralize stomach acids and reduce nausea, although it may not cure the underlying infection.

How to Prevent Food Poisoning at Home

Preventing food poisoning starts with proper food handling. To minimize the risk:

• Wash your hands frequently.
• Make sure to eat well-cooked foods (meat, chicken, eggs, and seafood)
• Store food properly in the fridge and use leftovers promptly.

Here’s to a safe and healthy summer full of good food and great times!