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Signs of Food Poisoning

When food is contaminated by infectious organisms or prepared improperly, it can cause food poisoning when eaten. According to the Mayo Clinic, the effects of food poisoning depend on the contaminant, the degree of contamination and your age and health. It can take anywhere from 6 to 72 hours to see symptoms of poisoning.

  1. General Signs

    • General side effects of food poisoning include stomach troubles, like nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. You may also feel a loss of appetite and fatigue. Sometimes a fever or chills will occur.

    Diarrhea

    • Diarrhea is one of the primary signs that you may have food poisoning. Diarrhea caused from food poisoning can be bloody, watery and voluminous compared to other normal bowel movements and can last anywhere from one day to a week. Diarrhea can be different for each person depending on the type of contamination.

    Dehydration

    • Dehydration is a serious sign that you may have food poisoning. Dehydration needs to be especially watched for in children and adults over the age of 60 who have weak immune systems. Dehydration is due to severe diarrhea and vomiting that leads to fluid and salt loss in the body and can leave you feeling parched and your skin feeling leathery. Dehydration due to food poisoning can occur as early as hours after first general symptoms.

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