Food poisoning, also called foodborne illness, affects about 48 million people in the U.S. each year. The risk of getting food poisoning increases during the holiday seasons, with research indicating that outbreaks are most common between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Most cases of food poisoning are mild. However, some can lead to severe dehydration or other complications. Recognizing the signs and knowing when to seek care is essential for speeding up recovery and preventing serious health consequences.
Urgent Care Clinic of Lincoln provides prompt care for patients with food poisoning as well as other non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. If you suspect you might have contracted a foodborne illness, don’t hesitate to visit our clinic.
What Is Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning is an illness caused by consuming food or beverages contaminated by certain bacteria, viruses, or toxins. This contamination can occur at any stage of food production, preparation, handling, and storage.
Common Causes of Food Poisoning
Several pathogens and toxins can cause foodborne illness. The most common include:
- Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria are leading causes of food poisoning. These bacteria are often found in undercooked meats, raw eggs, unpasteurized dairy products, and contaminated produce.
- Viruses: Norovirus is one of the most frequent viral causes of food poisoning. It spreads through contaminated water, raw shellfish, and unwashed produce.
- Parasites: Though less common, parasites like Giardia and Toxoplasma can cause prolonged illness. These are often linked to undercooked seafood and contaminated water.
- Toxins: Some bacteria produce toxins that remain in food even after cooking. For example, Staphylococcus aureus can cause rapid-onset nausea and vomiting due to heat-resistant toxins, and C. perfringens can lead to foodborne illness when its spores multiply in improperly stored or reheated foods.
Common Symptoms of Food Poisoning
Knowing common food poisoning symptoms can help determine whether home care is enough or if medical attention is needed. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe illness, depending on the type and amount of pathogen or toxin consumed
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Pain and Cramping
- Fever and Chills
- Weakness and Fatigue
- Headache and Muscle Aches
When Symptoms Appear
Food poisoning symptoms usually begin within hours to two days after eating contaminated food. However, in some cases, symptoms may take several days or even weeks to develop. The timing depends on the type of pathogen or toxin ingested.
How To Get Rid of Food Poisoning at Home
Most cases of food poisoning are mild and improve within a few days. Home remedies for food poisoning can ease discomfort and prevent complications like dehydration.
For Adults: Initial Self-Care
- Stay Hydrated
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- Drink plenty of water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions to replace lost fluids.
- Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, or sugary beverages, as they can worsen dehydration.
- Get Plenty of Rest
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- Rest allows the body to focus on recovering.
- Avoid strenuous activity until energy levels improve.
- Gradually Reintroduce Food
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- Start with bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet).
- Avoid spicy, greasy, or dairy-based foods until the stomach settles.
- Consider Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
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- Anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide can help slow diarrhea but should be used cautiously.
- Pain relievers like acetaminophen may help with fever and muscle aches but should not be taken on an empty stomach.
Important Note: If symptoms worsen or do not improve even after home remedies for food poisoning, consult a healthcare provider.
These steps can help with food poisoning treatment at home, but some cases require medical care. Knowing when to see a doctor for food poisoning is crucial for a safe recovery.
When to Go to Urgent Care in Lincoln, NE, for Food Poisoning Treatment
While mild cases of food poisoning often resolve with home care, it is advisable to visit urgent care in Lincoln, NE, in some instances.
Seek urgent care if you experience:
- Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea: The inability to keep fluids down for more than 24 hours increases the risk of dehydration.
- Signs of Dehydration: These include dizziness, dry mouth, reduced urination, and dark-colored urine.
- Fever Above 101.5°F (38.6°C): A high fever may indicate a more severe infection.
- Severe Abdominal Pain: Intense or localized pain could suggest complications.
- Bloody Diarrhea: This may suggest a bacterial infection. We can test stool and determine if antibiotics are appropriate.
Those with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, pregnant individuals, and older adults should be cautious. Seek urgent care in Lincoln, NE, if symptoms are:
- Persistent or Severe: Even if mild, due to a higher risk of complications
- Accompanied by Fever: As it may indicate a more serious infection
At the Urgent Care Clinic of Lincoln, we provide food poisoning treatment, such as intravenous (IV) fluids for dehydration, anti-nausea medications, and thorough evaluations.
When to Go to the ER Instead
In certain situations, emergency care is necessary. Proceed to the nearest emergency room or call 911 if the following symptoms arise:
- Neurological Symptoms: Muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, and blurred vision could indicate severe conditions like botulism.
- Difficulty Breathing or Swelling: This could indicate an allergic reaction rather than food poisoning.
Young children and infants are particularly vulnerable to rapid dehydration, which can become life-threatening if not treated quickly. Go to the ER or call 911 if your child exhibits:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting several hours, preventing fluid intake
- Dry mouth and tongue, as this indicates significant dehydration
- No tears when crying, a sign of extreme fluid loss
- Sunken eyes or cheeks
- Unresponsiveness, extreme drowsiness, or irritability
These symptoms require immediate medical attention to prevent life-threatening complications.
Prevention Tips
Practicing safe food handling can significantly reduce the risk of contracting foodborne illnesses:
- Wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before handling food.
- Clean utensils, cutting boards, and countertops thoroughly with soap and water to prevent cross-contamination.
- To avoid cross-contamination, use separate cutting boards and plates for raw meats and fresh produce.
- Ensure foods are cooked to the right internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to verify.
- Refrigerate or freeze perishable foods within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. Keep your refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
Additionally, it’s important to stay informed about food poisoning outbreaks in your area. Pay attention to public announcements of food recalls and outbreaks. If you get food poisoning, be sure to report it to your local health department.
Following these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of food poisoning for yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
Get Prompt Medical Care for Food Poisoning
Recognizing food poisoning symptoms early and knowing when to seek medical care helps support recovery and prevent complications. While mild cases often improve with rest and hydration, severe or prolonged symptoms require medical attention.
Urgent Care Clinic of Lincoln is ready to help if symptoms persist or worsen. We offer convenient, accessible medical care for patients of all ages. Whether you need medical services for you or your little one, you can count on us for prompt evaluation and treatment.
You don’t need to make an appointment to get care — simply visit us during clinic hours. You may also reach out to our friendly staff for more information about our services.