Internal Medicine, by video or in person
Food Poisoning, Diarrhoea and Vomiting in Adults
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Food Poisoning, Diarrhoea and Vomiting in Adults
- Diarrhoea, often watery
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Fever, chills or aching
- Feeling weak and tired
Food poisoning and stomach bugs cause diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps and sometimes fever, usually starting within hours to a day or two of eating contaminated food or water. Most cases settle by themselves within a few days. The main danger is losing too much fluid, so the most important treatment is drinking enough, ideally oral rehydration solution (ORS). Antibiotics are rarely needed and can make some infections worse. Bloody diarrhoea, high fever, or diarrhoea in someone who is pregnant, elderly or has a long-term illness needs a doctor. Cholera, with large amounts of watery diarrhoea, is an emergency.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Diarrhoea, often watery
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Fever, chills or aching
- Feeling weak and tired
- Thirst, dry mouth and passing less urine as fluid is lost
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if diarrhoea lasts more than three days or vomiting more than two days, if there is blood or mucus in the stool, a fever of 38°C or more, or if you are pregnant, over 65, or have diabetes, kidney disease or a weakened immune system. Go to a hospital emergency department now for large amounts of watery diarrhoea, being unable to keep any fluid down, passing little or no urine, confusion, fainting, severe stomach pain, or black or bloody stools.
Treatment options
- Oral rehydration solution (ORS) sipped often, or home-made with clean water, sugar and salt as the packet or a health worker advises
- Eating plain foods as soon as you feel able
- Resting and washing hands carefully to protect others
- Avoiding anti-diarrhoea medicines if there is blood in the stool or a high fever
- Antibiotics only when a doctor finds a bacterial cause that needs them
Common Questions
Should I take an antibiotic for food poisoning?
Usually not. Most food poisoning is caused by viruses or toxins and settles without antibiotics. A doctor will advise one only for specific infections, often after a stool test.
Is ORS better than water?
Yes. ORS replaces the salt and sugar lost in diarrhoea as well as water, so the body absorbs it better than plain water or soft drinks.
When can I eat again?
As soon as you feel hungry. Start with plain foods such as pap, rice, bread or bananas, and avoid alcohol, heavy or spicy food for a day or two.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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