FOODBORNE ILLNESS
Foodborne illness is a disease of the gastrointestinal tract. It is cause by eating foods or beverages containing harmful bacteria.
There are a series of disease-causing bacteria that contaminate food. The common foodborne diseases that cause infections are:
- Variety of bacteria
- Parasites
- Viruses
Other causes of food poisoning are cause by toxins and chemicals.
Foodborne illnesses happen suddenly but it doesn’t last for a long time. Most people with this condition recover on their own. This can also lead to serious complication.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF FOODBORNE ILLNESS
The following are the common symptoms of Foodborne illnesses.
- Vomiting
- Abdominal Cramps
- Nausea
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Muscle & Joint Aches
- Fatigue
The listed below are symptoms caused by chemicals and harmful toxins.
- Blurred Vision
- Dizziness
- A headache
- Numbness of the skin
- Paralysis
- Weakness
CAUSES OF FOODBORNE ILLNESS
The listed below are the causes of foodborne diseases such as:
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Parasites
- Chemicals
RISK FACTOR OF FOODBORNE ILLNESS
The following are factors at risk of getting Foodborne Illnesses.
- Poor health and hygiene
- Poor Sanitation
- Getting food from unsafe sources
- Using dirty utensils and equipment
- An improper holding of hazardous food temperatures
- Improper food cooking temperature
- Infants and Children
- Pregnant Women and their Babies
- Older Adults
- A person with a weak immune system
COMPLICATIONS OF FOODBORNE ILLNESS
Foodborne Illnesses may lead to different condition including:
- Dehydration
- Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
- Paralysis
- Spontaneous abortion in pregnant women
- Reactive Arthritis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Guillain-Barre Syndrome
- Kidney Failure
- Brain Damage
- Death
DIAGNOSIS
In diagnosing, your doctor will ask a question about your symptoms. Your recent food and drinks that you consume and your medical history. After that, he will conduct a physical exam. To diagnose you with the condition.
The diagnostic test may include:
- Getting your stool sample to examine the signs of infections.
- A sample of vomit or sample of suspected food you eat.
After doing all the procedures. Your doctor may conduct other medical tests. To find out the cause and symptoms of your condition.
TREATING FOODBORNE ILLNESS
The treatment may vary depending on the severity and cause of your illness. Some people with this condition recover on their own without any treatment.
If severe symptoms exist, the treatment may include:
- Replacement of Lost Fluid
- Antibiotic Drugs
MEDICATION FOR FOODBORNE ILLNESS
The following are home remedy used to help in treating this condition.
- Let your stomach settle.
- Try to sip a small amount of liquid or suck on ice chips.
- Ease back to eating starting with bland and easy to digest food.
- Drink plenty of water and liquids such as juices, tea, coffee and soft drinks.
- Older adults with the weak immune system must drink oral dehydration.
- Avoid eating certain foods until you’re better.
- Take some rest.
FOODBORNE ILLNESS PREVENTIONS
The following are tips to prevent Foodborne Illness.
- Wash your hands properly.
- Proper washing of utensils and food surfaces.
- Separate raw foods from ready to eat foods.
- Cook food at a safe temperature.
- Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
- Fruits and Vegetables must wash under running water. Before eating or cooking.
- Discard food when in doubt.