Food Poisoning - UK Health Insurance

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Food Poisoning] [Frostbite]

FOOD POISONING

Food poisoning is an acute syndrome caused by ingestion of food containing bacteria or viruses. The symptoms appear very suddenly and within 48 hours of eating the contaminated food.

TARGET GROUP:

It is a common disease, affecting people of all ages and both sexes worldwide.

TYPE OF DISEASE:

Food poisoning does not occur due to chemical fertilizers, or pesticides applied to food by farmers, but due to poor food storage or handling practices in home or restaurant kitchens that cause food to become contaminated. The toxin has a paralyzing effect on the nervous system; it prevents the nerves from conducting messages from the brain. Control of the muscles around the face and neck is lost. This may cause difficulty in eating and swallowing. Loss of the ability to swallow makes it impossible to eat. It leads to choking and may bring foreign materials into the lungs. It is a common, usually mild, but sometimes deadly illness.

 

SYMPTOMS:

Symptoms of Food Poisoning are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Cramps in the stomach
• Chills
• Fever
• Watery stools
• Dehydration
• Nervous system damage
• Flu like symptoms
• Dryness in the mouth

 

AFFECTED AREA:

Usually the abdomen and central nervous system is affected but the whole body may be affected by food poisoning.

CAUSES:

The known causes of food poisoning include infective agents and toxic agents. Infective agents include viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Toxic agents include poisonous mushrooms, improperly prepared exotic foods, or pesticides on fruits and vegetables. Food usually becomes contaminated with these agents from poor sanitation or preparation by the food handlers. Improperly packaged food stored at the wrong temperature also promotes contamination. Three of the most important causes of food poisoning are the salmonella, clostridium botulinum and staphylococcal organisms.

 

RISK TO OTHERS:

People who travel frequently are at a high risk of food poisoning known as Traveler's diarrhea.

RISK TO SUFFERER:

Severe food poisoning can cause difficulty in breathing, blurred vision, or paralysis. It is a mild disease but in some cases it can turn fatal.

TREATMENT:

Treatment for food poisoning starts with extra fluids to remain hydrated. A bland diet should be taken once the symptoms of food poisoning subside. Medications to control vomiting and diarrhea may be given.