Understanding Food Poisoning: Causes and Symptoms

This article explains the causes and symptoms of food poisoning, highlighting key differences from stomach flu. It emphasizes recognizing signs like diarrhea, cramps, and severe symptoms such as muscle paralysis in botulism. The piece advises seeking medical help for persistent or severe symptoms, offering useful tips for distinguishing between foodborne illness and viral infections. Understanding these signs can aid in prompt treatment and prevention.

Food poisoning, a prevalent gastrointestinal infection, affects millions yearly. It results from consuming contaminated food containing toxins, chemicals, or infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, or prions. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and may involve the digestive system or other organs like the brain, kidneys, or muscles. Different pathogens cause varied signs, but common symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting occurring within hours or days after eating contaminated food. Severe cases like botulism can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, and difficulty swallowing. Distinguishing food poisoning from stomach flu is essential, as the causes and duration differ. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

• Symptoms include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, fever, muscle aches, weakness, and abdominal pain.
• Botulism presents with muscle paralysis, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and vision issues.
• Food poisoning often lasts a few days, whereas stomach flu usually resolves within 24 hours.