Food poisoning is a condition that is familiar to literally every adult, it affects about 1 in 6 adults in the United States annually, according to the United States Center for disease control. [1] It is usually characterized by a sharp deterioration in health after eating is most common in the summer. In order to take action on time, it is useful to know the symptoms of food poisoning. Food poisoning is usually called an acute gastrointestinal disorder caused by the use of drinks or foods that have been infected by toxins or spoilt. [2] It develops because potentially pathogenic bacteria, viruses or parasites as well as the toxins they produce, enter the body. They multiply actively, causing irritation of the mucous membranes of the digestive tract and various organ dysfunctions. In addition, in some cases, toxins are absorbed into the general bloodstream, carried with the blood throughout the body, causing disruptions in the work of other organs and systems.
Food poisoning can be caused by bacteria, parasites or virus. However, pathogenic microorganisms in food do not necessarily cause intoxication, since the body of a healthy adult usually resists poisoning. In the external environment, under the influence of high temperatures and ultraviolet radiation, many of these bacteria die. But there are a few exceptions when pathogenic microorganisms trapped in food products release toxic substances. Poisoning of the body occurs under the influence of poisons already contained in food, as well as those that are formed as a result of the activity of bacteria in the intestinal cavity. Most common organisms responsible for food poisoning are: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium perfringens, and etc. Food poisoning can be prevented by ensuring that:
- Good hygiene is observed while cooking.
- The food is well cooked to the right internal temperature and the food is chilled.
- Expiry dates of processed foods is well noted. [3]
Symptoms of Food Poisoning
The onset of symptoms of food poisoning varies. It depends on the organism responsible for the infection, and it varies from 1 hour to 28 days. The symptoms of food poisoning may include these listed below.