How to Feel Better When You Get Food Poisoning

Posted by: OFT Food Safety & Injury Lawyers

Food poisoning can strike unexpectedly and leave you feeling miserable, especially if you don’t know what caused it. Whether you’re deciding to recover at home or seeking medical care, it’s essential to take steps that support your health while also documenting your case for potential food poisoning compensation.

If you decided to recover at home, however, there are plenty of tactics you can use to feel better and recover more comfortably.

Recovering From Food Poisoning at Home

If your symptoms are mild and you’re otherwise healthy, you may choose to recover at home. There are several steps you can take to feel better and minimize the duration of your illness.

Let the Illness Run Its Course

It may seem counterintuitive, but don’t reach for the Imodium yet. Your symptoms are ways that your body flushes itself of toxins. Your body reacts strongly to food poisoning to kill whatever caused the poisoning. Imodium, Pepto-Bismol, and other common OTC aids may only prolong your illness.

Instead, focus on replacing fluids and resting.

Stay Hydrated

Two of the main symptoms of food poisoning, diarrhea and vomiting, can leave you severely dehydrated. Your stomach may not feel like it can handle large amounts of water. Taking small but frequent sips can help you maintain your fluid levels.

Some victims of food poisoning have their own personal remedies, including decaffeinated tea, 7-Up, and ginger ale; however, most of the time, water is the most effective hydrator.

Keep Your Electrolyte Levels Up

Your electrolytes often go hand in hand with dehydration. Electrolytes regulate numerous vital bodily processes. They help your cells operate and keep your heart beating and your muscles working. If you have too few electrolytes, you may experience weakness, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat.

The main electrolytes you may have heard of are potassium, sodium, and magnesium. Other electrolytes include phosphate, calcium, and chloride. Electrolytes can be found in foods like bananas, spinach, and kale, as well as in many in-store supplements.

Drinks like Gatorade, Powerade, and Pedialyte tout their electrolyte replenishing powers, and natural options like coconut water can also help you stay hydrated and comfortable.

Adopt a Bland Diet

You may not want to start eating right away, but as you begin to feel better, certain bland foods may help you settle your stomach and keep your energy up. The BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—is gentle on your stomach and nutritious. BRAT foods are low in fiber and unlikely to irritate your stomach.

Avoid spicy, oily, and raw foods that may trigger further discomfort. Most dairy is off-limits, but you may want to consume some plain yogurt to help replenish your gut microbiome once you are feeling better.

When to Seek Medical Care

If symptoms worsen, last more than a few days, or if you have underlying health conditions, it’s essential to see a doctor. Medical attention also creates records that can support any legal claim for compensation related to foodborne illness.

Food Poisoning Recovery FAQs: What You Should Know to Protect Your Health and Your Rights

How long does food poisoning usually last?

Most mild cases of food poisoning resolve within 24 to 72 hours as your body clears the contaminated food or bacteria. However, certain pathogens, such as Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria, can cause symptoms that last a week or longer. If your illness persists beyond a few days or worsens, you should seek medical care.

What are the most common symptoms of food poisoning?

Food poisoning symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, and fatigue. Some people may also experience dehydration, chills, or headaches depending on the severity of the infection. Symptoms can appear within hours or take several days to develop after eating contaminated food.

When should I see a doctor for food poisoning?

You should seek medical attention if you have severe dehydration, bloody diarrhea, a high fever, persistent vomiting, or symptoms lasting more than three days. Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of complications. Medical records can also help document your illness if you later pursue a legal claim.

Can I sue if food poisoning was caused by a restaurant or food company?

Yes, you may be eligible to file a food poisoning lawsuit if negligence by a restaurant, grocery store, or manufacturer caused your illness. Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Speaking with an experienced food poisoning lawyer can help you determine whether you have a strong case and what evidence you need

Contact a Food Poisoning Lawyer

If you have been a victim of food poisoning, you may be eligible for financial compensation. A law firm experienced in food poisoning cases can help you receive compensation and protect others from the same fate.

Food poisoning cases can be complex, but our team can help you navigate the facts of the case, communicate with other parties, and determine whether you have standing to pursue compensation.

At OFT, we work with our clients to get real results. Call us today at (888) 828-7087 or schedule your free consultation online.