Food Poisoning
Millions of people in the United States are affected by food poisoning each year, though the severity of each case varies. Most people do not report food poisoning because they do not recognize it as such. Many just blame the “bad” meat they had at a restaurant a few hours before. However, less than 1% of food poisoning cases occur in restaurants, and over 90% of cases occur in the home. Food poisoning is caused by ingesting bacteria through either food or beverages, and can have devastating consequences if left untreated.
The experienced staff at Bellaire Emergency Center urges those who might be experiencing the symptoms of acute food poisoning to contact our urgent care center immediately for treatment. To discuss your situation and find out if you need medical attention, call 713-669-9900.
Signs of Food Poisoning
Food poisoning affects every person differently, but symptoms of the illness tend to appear anywhere from 2-6 hours after consumption of contaminated food or drink. Some of the most common signs of food poisoning include:
- Extreme stomach pain, even after a bowel movement
- Diarrhea/cramps
- High fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness
These symptoms can result from several different types of food poisoning, and some of the most common include:
- Salmonella
- Botulism
- E. Coli
- Cholera
- Fish poisoning
In most cases, food poisoning is caused by eating undercooked meat, expired food products, or contaminated foods that have not been properly washed.
Contact Us
Food poisoning can be very painful, and can even be fatal if it is serious enough. If you think you may have food poisoning, contact the emergency medical care professionals at Bellaire Emergency Center today at 713-669-9900.
