Food Poisoning

What are the treatments for the condition?

Food poisoning usually causes dehydration from the loss of body fluids in diarrhea and vomit. Replacing fluids and various salts in the body is important. This can be done in the hospital or in a clinic if a person cannot keep liquids down. Fluids and salt can be replaced through an intravenous tube (IV). Home treatment is all that is needed in mild cases when nausea and vomiting are not severe. Nausea and the diarrhea may be relieved by certain drugs, such as promethazine or diphenoxylate. These are rarely needed or given, however.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects are uncommon, but any medications given have possible side effects. Specific side effects depend on the drugs given.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

People generally recover within 24 hours and feel back to normal within 2 days. A return to normal activities is usually allowed as soon as a person feels better.

How is the condition monitored?

A doctor will help monitor the disease if a person becomes very ill. If symptoms last for more than 24 hours, medical care should be sought. If a person becomes lightheaded, is unable to stand, or has blood in the vomit or diarrhea, a doctor should be contacted.