How to Cure Food Poisoning
As we all know, food poisoning is caused by consumption of food that is contaminated with pathogens or toxins. Usually, the symptoms start within 48 hours of food intake. The nature and severity of food poisoning symptoms may vary with the type of pathogen or toxin, the health condition and age of the affected person, etc. While, some people may not develop any symptoms, some others have mild to severe symptoms. In some cases, these symptoms can be life-threatening too. Even though, food poisoning is a common condition, at times, it can be fatal and may even lead to death. So, this condition must be treated without any delay, especially, if the symptoms are very severe. However, mild symptoms can be cured at home, if taken care of, at the initial stages itself.
Curing Food Poisoning
Food poisoning may cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, dehydration, fever, chills, fatigue and aversion to food. Severe symptoms include blood in vomit, bloody stool, numbness and blurred vision. If left untreated, these symptoms may lead to damage of the nervous system and may even lead to death. Mild symptoms may be treated at home with some simple remedial measures and no medication. But, moderate to severe symptoms need medical attention to avoid complications.
Food Poisoning Home Remedies
As stated above, mild symptoms of food poisoning can be cured at home. No medication is needed in such cases, if you take care properly. Take a look at the following tips for curing food poisoning.
- The first and foremost point to note is that the affected person must avoid solid foods for sometime. It will be better to skip two to three meals, as this helps the digestive system to recuperate.
- Skipping meals does not mean that you should not have anything. In fact, you must stay well hydrated to compensate for the loss of fluids, due to vomiting and diarrhea. Use clear liquids for this purpose. Tender coconut water is said to be highly beneficial to cure food poisoning.
- It will be better to drink fluids frequently, but, in small amounts. Avoid drinking caffeinated and carbonated beverages. Even sugary drinks and alcohol must be avoided. You may also go for diluted sports drinks. Simple soups and herbal teas with ginger or lemon may also make the affected person feel good.
- Start solid foods in small amounts. For a few days, you have to avoid chilled food and those food items with oil and fat. Have simple foods, like, rice, potatoes, bread, for at least a week, and include probiotics (like, yogurt) in your diet.
- The affected person must avoid strenuous physical activities for a few days. Complete bed rest is often advised, so that the body can heal itself.
Medical Treatment for Food Poisoning
Treatment for food poisoning is decided on the basis of factors like nature and severity of symptoms, causal agent, age and health condition of the patient. But, in almost all cases, fluid loss due to incessant vomiting and diarrhea is tackled by administering intravenous saline. Even antibiotics may be administered along with the saline, in case of severe infection. The doctor may also prescribe medications for fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, in order to cure food poisoning. In some severe cases, the patient may have to be admitted to the intensive care unit, with life support measures.
In short, food poisoning is one of the common conditions that may cause symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. It is always better to avoid this condition, by observing proper hygiene and by consuming fresh and properly cooked food. Now that you know how to treat food poisoning at home, follow the above said tips, only if the symptoms are mild. In case of severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
