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Food poisoning

Food poisoning is very unpleasant because it make you nausea/vomit and sometimes diarrhea. Food poisoning is not always mild and easy to treat. Sometime people get severe dehydration and electrolytes depletion which may need special treatment and care.

However, there are a number of ways you can do to reduce or prevent nausea and vomiting from food poisoning:

  • Avoid solid foods until vomiting ends, then eat light, bland foods such as saltine crackers, bananas, rice or bread.
  • Sipping liquids may help avoid vomiting.
  • Do not eat fried, greasy, spicy or sweet foods.
  • Do not take anti-nausea or anti-diarrhea medications without asking your doctor. They have side effects and may make your diarrhea get worse. Your doctor may give you anti-nausea medication if you are at risk of developing dehydration.
  • Drink clear fluids, starting with small sips and gradually drinking more.
  • If vomiting and diarrhea last more than 24 hours, drink an oral rehydration solution (widely available at the pharmacy store)
Seek medical advise or visit the nearest hospital if your symptoms last longer than 3 days or you have:
  • Severe belly pain
  • Fever
  • Bloody diarrhea or dark colored stool
  • Vomiting that is prolonged or bloody
  • Signs of dehydration such as dried mouth, decreased urination, dizziness, fatigue or increased heart rate or breathing fast.

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