Food poisoning, known for causing vomiting and diarrhea, can often be treated by drinking fluids and eating bland foods. In some cases, prescription drugs such as antibiotics may be needed for treatment. Some people may be hospitalized.
Food Poisoning Treatment:
Call 911 if:
You think the food poisoning may be from seafood or mushrooms.
The person is severely dehydrated.
Control Nausea and Vomiting:
- 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.
- Don’t eat fried, greasy, spicy, or sweet foods.
- Don’t take anti-nausea or anti-diarrhea medication without asking your doctor. They may make some kinds of diarrhea worse. Your doctor may give you anti-nausea medication if you are at risk of being dehydrated.
Prevent 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.
When to Call a Doctor
Call a doctor immediately if symptoms last more than 3 days and include:
- Severe belly pain
- Fever
- Bloody diarrhea or dark stools
- Vomiting that is prolonged or bloody
Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, decreased urination, dizziness, fatigue, or increased heart rate or breathing rate
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