Food poisoning is a condition characterized by nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea after eating contaminated food. The contamination can be caused by germs or toxins that enter the food.
Symptoms of food poisoning can appear minutes, hours, or days after eating contaminated food. The speed depends on the type of food and the cause.
Generally, food poisoning is not a serious condition and will go away on its own. However, this condition can sometimes be dangerous and requires special treatment by a doctor.
Characteristics of Food Poisoning
Symptoms that arise due to food poisoning vary, depending on the substance that contaminates the food consumed. Symptoms that often appear include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and headaches.
Causes of Food Poisoning
The cause of poisoning is food that has been contaminated with germs or toxins, such as eggs or eggs seafood raw. Such contamination can occur while food is going through the initial production process, such as from planting to shipping, or while it is being processed for consumption. Food poisoning can also occur when a person eats fruit and vegetables that are dirty or not washed properly. Improper processing of frozen food, such as indiscriminately thawing beef or chicken, can also cause food poisoning.
How to Overcome Food Poisoning
Preventing dehydration is the first aid for dealing with food poisoning. To prevent dehydration, sufferers can drink water little by little, and avoid stimulating foods, such as spicy or too sweet foods to prevent vomiting. Do not take anti-vomiting or antidiarrheal drugs without consulting your doctor.
Effects of Food Poisoning
Food poisoning can cause several complications, from mild to more serious. The most common complication is dehydration. Meanwhile, more serious complications include hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Food Poisoning Prevention
Making and consuming food clean and healthy is the most effective way to prevent food poisoning. In addition, certain types of food whose safety has not been confirmed should also be avoided.