Pulse Nigeria is the most followed news and entertainment platform, informing and engaging young Nigerians round the clock, providing updates by the hour.

Pulse Nigeria

Food poisoning can be managed at home if you act quickly.

Got food poisoned? Here's what to do immediately to feel better | Pulse Nigeria

Anna Ajayi

Getting food poisoned is something nobody wants to experience, but it happens to the best of us.

Maybe you enjoyed a lovely meal only to end up with stomach cramps, nausea, or even vomiting hours later. Food poisoning can leave you feeling helpless and miserable.

In most cases, food poisoning can be managed at home if you act quickly and take the right steps. Knowing how to treat food poisoning as soon as it strikes can help you feel better faster.

<h3>What to do right away</h3>

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

One of the most important things you can do is drink fluids. When you’re losing fluids through vomiting or diarrhoea, your body becomes dehydrated quickly. Start by sipping small amounts of water frequently. Avoid drinks like coffee, alcohol, and sugary sodas—they can make dehydration worse.

Sip small amounts of water frequently [Maxceeda]

2. Give your stomach a break

Your stomach needs time to calm down, so don’t force yourself to eat right away. Resting your digestive system can help reduce nausea. Wait a few hours, and once you feel ready to eat, start with small portions of bland, easy-to-digest foods. Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (known as the BRAT diet) are great options.

3. Avoid trigger foods

As tempting as your favourite spicy dish might sound, steer clear of anything that could upset your stomach more. Avoid fatty, spicy, or greasy foods, as well as dairy products. Keep things light until your tummy feels stable again.

4. Get plenty of rest

Your body is working hard to fight off those nasty germs. Resting helps your immune system do its job. Find a cosy spot, stay warm, and allow your body the time it needs to recover. Avoid any strenuous activities until you’re feeling better.

5. Consider over-the-counter help

If your symptoms are severe, like painful stomach cramps, consider using over-the-counter remedies such as antacids.

However, avoid medication that stops diarrhoea unless recommended by a doctor, as your body may need to expel harmful bacteria.

Sometimes food poisoning can be more serious and require medical attention. Here are some signs that you should see a doctor:

<ul><li>High fever</li><li>Severe dehydration signs like dry mouth, dark urine, or dizziness</li><li>Blood in your vomit or stool</li><li>Symptoms lasting more than two days or getting worse</li></ul>

<h3>Prevention tips for the future</h3>

To avoid food poisoning in the future, wash your hands before and after meals, cook meat to the proper temperature, and be cautious about where you eat.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/how-to-identify-prevent-and-treat-food-poisoning/d56vb13">How to identify, prevent, and treat food poisoning</a>

This content was created with the help of an AI model and verified by the writer.

What should you do immediately after getting food poisoned? [FoodPlusWords]

Got food poisoned? Here's what to do immediately to feel better

Pulse Picks

Business

News

Entertainment

Lifestyle

Politics

Local

Metro

World

News 

Celebrities

Music

Movies

Fashion

Beauty & Health

Relationships & Weddings

Food & Travel

Domestic

International 

Sports 

Celebrity Picks

Pulse Marketing

Explore categories

Influencer Awards

Company Pages

Breaking News & Top Stories | Pulse Nigeria

Video

Checkout our authors for the latest content across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulse Nigeria 

Authors | Pulse Nigeria

| Pulse Nigeria

Read the latest news across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulse Nigeria

Search for the latest content across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulse Nigeria

Search Results | Pulse Nigeria

Watch the latest videos across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulse Nigeria