Washing the food with water containing germs from animal waste or human sewage may cause germs to get on the food being consumed and may cause food poisoning. Not washing the hands before cooking or eating may also be to blame for some cases of food poisoning.

Germs may also grow on food left unrefrigerated, left outdoors or stored too long. Mild cases of food poisoning may occur which may only be treated with time, waiting for the symptoms to decline as the body eliminates the pathogen. In more severe cases, the patient may need to seek medical care.

Symptoms of food poisoning may include vomiting, feeling sick to the stomach and stomach cramps. The first sign of food poisoning may be diarrhea. The severity of these symptoms may depend on the health of the patient and the pathogen causing the illness.

In some cases, the patient may become dehydrated. This may be caused by the loss of fluids from vomiting and diarrhea. Signs of dehydration may include dry mouth, dizziness and passing only a small amount of darkly colored urine. Women who are pregnant should always contact a healthcare professional if they believe they may have food poisoning.

Food poisoning may go away on its own within a few days. Medication may not be needed for most cases of food poisoning, but in more severe cases antibiotics may be prescribed. Resting and drinking fluids to stay hydrated may be recommended to avoid dehydration.

In cases where the patient may be infected with botulism or E. coli, emergency medical care may be needed. A healthcare professional may also recommend other effective treatments for treating food poisoning.

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