Food Poisoning & Gastroenteritis: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as stomach upset, running stomach.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Food poisoning and gastroenteritis are infections of the gut from contaminated food or water, causing vomiting and diarrhoea that usually settle within a few days. The real danger is dehydration, especially in children and the elderly. Most cases need fluids, not antibiotics.
Symptoms
Diarrhoea, sometimes watery
Nausea and vomiting
Crampy abdominal pain
Fever
Weakness
Loss of appetite
Causes & risk factors
Food left out too long or poorly reheated
Contaminated water or ice
Undercooked meat, eggs or seafood
Poor hand hygiene during food preparation
Treatment & self-care
Replace lost fluids with ORS or frequent sips of clean water, continue light meals as tolerated, and rest; most cases resolve within 48 to 72 hours. Avoid routine antibiotics and anti-diarrhoea tablets unless a doctor prescribes them. Children should continue breastfeeding or feeding alongside ORS and zinc as advised.
See a doctor urgently if
Blood or mucus in the stool
Signs of dehydration: sunken eyes, dry mouth, little urine
High fever or symptoms beyond three days
Severe abdominal pain
Vomiting that prevents any fluid intake
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Food Poisoning & Gastroenteritis?
Early signs often include diarrhoea, sometimes watery, nausea and vomiting, crampy abdominal pain. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Food Poisoning & Gastroenteritis be treated?
Replace lost fluids with ORS or frequent sips of clean water, continue light meals as tolerated, and rest; most cases resolve within 48 to 72 hours. Avoid routine antibiotics and anti-diarrhoea tablets unless a doctor prescribes them. Children should continue breastfeeding or feeding alongside ORS and zinc as advised.
When should I see a doctor about Food Poisoning & Gastroenteritis?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: blood or mucus in the stool; signs of dehydration: sunken eyes, dry mouth, little urine; high fever or symptoms beyond three days; severe abdominal pain; vomiting that prevents any fluid intake.