Food poisoning occurs when someone gets sick after eating contaminated food or drink. It is also called foodborne illness, foodborne disease, or food infection. However, symptoms may differ among the different types of foodborne diseases. Symptoms can sometimes be severe, and some foodborne illnesses can even be life-threatening.
The most common symptoms of food poisoning include:
- upset stomach
- abdominal cramps
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- fever
- dehydration
Who is Likely to Have Food Poisoning?
Anyone can get a foodborne illness, but some people are more likely to develop one. They include:
- Young children
- Older adults
- People with immune systems weakened from medical conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, organ transplants, or HIV/AIDS, or from receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
- Pregnant women
Most people with a foodborne illness get better without medical treatment, but people with severe symptoms should see their doctor.