Font Size
A
A
A

Food Poisoning (cont.)

Medical Treatment

The main treatment for food poisoning is putting fluids back in the body (rehydration) through an IV and by drinking. The patient may need to be admitted to the hospital. This depends on the severity of the dehydration, response to therapy, and ability to drink fluids without vomiting. Children, in particular, may need close observation.

  • Anti-vomiting and diarrhea medications may be given.
  • The doctor may also treat any fever to make the patient more comfortable.
  • Antibiotics are rarely needed for food poisoning. In some cases, antibiotics worsen the condition. Only a few specific causes of food poisoning are improved by using these medications. The length of illness with traveler's diarrhea (shigellae) can be decreased with antibiotics, but this specific illness usually runs its course and improves without treatment.
  • With mushroom poisoning or eating foods contaminated with pesticides, aggressive treatment may include pumping the stomach (lavage) or giving medications as antidotes. These poisonings are very serious and may require intensive care in the hospital.



Next: Next Steps »

Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

Weight Loss Wisdom

Get tips, recipes and inspiration.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz


Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Food Poisoning »

Food poisoning is defined as an illness caused by the consumption of food or water contaminated with bacteria and/or their toxins, parasites, viruses, or chemicals.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary