The treatment for food poisoning depends on the type of contaminant and the severity of the illness. In most cases, the illness will resolve on its own within a few days, and the primary focus is on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration. Here are some treatment options for food poisoning:
1. Rehydration and Fluid replacement: Fluids and electrolytes, maintain the balance of fluids in your body. Electrolytes include minerals such as sodium, potassium and calcium. After vomiting or diarrhea, it’s important to replace fluids to prevent dehydration. Severe dehydration may require going to the hospital. You may need fluids and electrolytes delivered directly into the bloodstream.
2. Medications: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen can help relieve fever and pain. Anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide can help reduce diarrhea, but they should be used with caution as they can make some types of food poisoning worse. Also, the following may be used to treat underlying problems.
- Antibiotics. If the illness is caused by bacteria, you may be prescribed an antibiotic. Antibiotics are generally for people with severe disease or with a higher risk of complications.
- Antiparasitics. Drugs that target parasites, called antiparasitics, are usually prescribed for parasitic infections.
3. Probiotics. Your care provider may recommend probiotics. These are treatments that replace healthy bacteria in the digestive system.
4. Rest: Rest and avoid strenuous activity to help your body fight off the illness.
5. Ease back into eating. Gradually begin to eat bland, low-fat, easy-to-digest foods, such as soda crackers, toast, gelatin, bananas and rice. Stop eating if you feel sick to your stomach again.
6. Avoid certain foods and substances until you’re feeling better. These include dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and fatty or highly seasoned foods.
7. Medical attention: Seek medical attention if you have severe or prolonged symptoms, such as high fever, severe dehydration, blood in your stool, or signs of an infection spreading to other parts of your body.
Note that, antibiotics should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional as inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance.