Food poisoning – Signs and Symptoms

By July 15, 2015Blog

animated man feeling nauseasWhat’s one thing that can ruin a vacation or a BBQ? Food poisoning.  It’s important that you are aware of how the food is prepared. Food poisoning a big problem during the summer grilling season, and if you or the cook aren’t careful about storing, preparing and serving every ingredient, the fun atmosphere can quickly turn into one where every guest is at risk of food poisoning. Coastal Urgent care can help in the unfortunate event that you’re exposed to unsafe foods but taking steps to avoid it in the first place might be the best idea.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 48 million Americans come down with some type of food born illness every year. While you might think you will never get food poisoning, the problem is more widespread than you knew.

What causes food poisoning?

  • Cooked and uncooked foods together
  • Unevenly cooked foods
  • Food left out
  • Food prepared by someone who does not wash their hands properly
  • Dairy products that have not been properly refrigerated
  • Frozen or refrigerated foods that are not stored at the proper temperature
  • Food prepared using utensils, plastic wear, cutting boards or other tools that have not been properly cleaned
  • Raw fish/oysters
  • Raw fruits and/or vegetables that have not been washed well
  • Water from a well, stream, water reservoir, city or town water that has not been treated prior to consumption

Most cases of food poisoning can be treated at home and will run its course in 24 to 48 hours. However, you should seek medical attention if you notice:

  • Signs of dehydration
  • Blood in the stools
  • Fever
  • Vomiting or diarrhea longer than 72 hours

The effects of food poisoning can vary from person to person, even if everyone is exposed to the same contaminated foods. It really depends on how much of the germs each person consumed and how sensitive their bodies are to it. 

Preventing Food Poisoning

While you might not be able to control food poisoning while eating out, you can take steps at home to prevent food poisoning. Wash all fruits and vegetables before preparing. Clean your prep area and hands often. Make sure to not cross-contaminate surfaces (keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from produce prep area). Always make sure you use a food thermometer to check the correct temperature for safe consumption. Finally, chill foods properly to prevent growth that can start in as little as two hours with room temperature food.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of food poisoning and feel you should seek medical care, come to your local urgent care.