Diarrhoea, as well as vomiting and painful abdominal cramping can be a symptom of food poisoning. Symptoms generally start within 2 to 6 hours after eating the offending food and can be caused by bacteria, viruses or toxins in food.
Even unlikely foods can be the source of food poisoning due to cross-contamination. This can occur even at home in the kitchen, where uncontaminated foods become infected through, for example, contact with infected raw meat.
Gastro or ‘gastroenteritis’ isn’t always caused by eating contaminated food. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Food poisoning is caused by consuming good or drinks contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses or toxins. Food poisoning often has a sudden onset, with symptoms appearing within hours of eating contaminated food, whereas gastro symptoms may develop gradually over one to three days.
It’s important to rehydrate with water if you have diarrhoea. Try sucking ice chips, or replace lost fluids and electrolytes with an oral rehydration solution from your pharmacy. As you feel better you can start to eat and return to your normal diet and routine when ready.
If you are concerned that your symptoms are severe and are not improving, then seek medical attention.
