What are the symptoms of food poisoning?

Symptoms caused by contaminated food usually begin within hours to a few days. Mild cases may be self-limited; severe signs require urgent evaluation.

• Onset usually within hours–days
• Symptoms range from mild to severe

The following complaints are commonly reported with suspected foodborne illness. Not all must be present.

• Nausea
• vomiting
• abdominal cramps
• diarrhea
• fire

Seek immediate emergency care or contact emergency services if any of the following occur.

• Inability to keep fluids down because of persistent or severe vomiting
• Severe diarrhea or bloody stools
• High or prolonged fever
• Dizziness, fainting or confusion
• Markedly reduced urine output or other signs of dehydration

Depending on severity and features of the presentation, the following specialties can guide care.

• Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology — for suspected infection-related causes and guidance on testing
• Internal Medicine — for general internal evaluation when needed
• Family Medicine — first-line assessment for mild to moderate complaints
• Emergency Medicine — for severe vomiting, dehydration or danger signs
• Gastroenterology — for severe or prolonged digestive system symptoms

Prepare and share the following information to help the healthcare professional evaluate you.

• When did symptoms start?
• What did you eat or drink (suspected food) and roughly how long before symptoms began?
• How severe are the symptoms (mild, moderate, severe)?
• Is there a fever? If yes, what is the temperature?
• Any reduced urine output, dizziness or fainting (dehydration signs)?