Diagnosis of Food Poisoning
By Christie Nicholson, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Oni Harton, J.D. | Last reviewed November 02, 2023
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Food poisoning (or "foodborne illness") is usually diagnosed by laboratory tests. These tests help identify specific organisms that can cause the illness. Bacteria, including Campylobacter, E.coli, and Salmonella, are found by stool sample culturing. Lab technicians then identify the bacteria growing in the lab's controlled environment. Lab technicians can identify parasites by examining stools under a microscope.
Viruses are not as easy to identify. They are difficult to culture and cannot be seen with a light microscope, as they are too small. Viruses are typically identified by stool sample tests that find genetic markers. These markers can determine a specific virus.
Common Causes of Food Poisoning
You need to know what can make you sick to avoid food poisoning. The most common causes of food poisoning are contaminated food and contaminated water.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), undercooked meat, rotten fish, and undercooked poultry contain foodborne diseases and pathogens. So do some dairy products, especially unpasteurized milk.
Some foods to look out for include the following:
- Raw hot dogs
- Soft cheeses
- Raw meat
- Unwashed vegetables and fruit
Some people get food poisoning because they have a food allergy, not because food is contaminated. Shellfish is a common food allergy.
Common Symptoms of Food Poisoning
To know if you have food poisoning, you must be able to recognize the symptoms. Most people are familiar with these symptoms. They're similar to when you have the stomach flu.
Some of the primary symptoms of food poisoning include:
- Stomachache
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pains and cramps
- Fever
- Bloody diarrhea
- Bloody stool
You should visit the emergency room immediately if you display any of these symptoms. Also, look out for signs of dehydration. If so, you'll want to drink something with electrolytes or rehydration solutions immediately.
If you're lucky, your food poisoning may be a minor case. However, it could become more severe, like hepatitis A, Staphylococcus aureus, or botulinum.
Severe Food Poisoning Complications
Severe cases of food poisoning may involve more serious symptoms. For example, if you contract gastroenteritis or the norovirus, you may experience severe dehydration. Some victims find blood in their stool and vomit.
Some groups are at greater risk of their food poisoning developing into something more severe. Risk factors include:
- Pregnant women
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
- Those with chronic medical conditions
- Infants and young children
These cases often require hospitalization and time away from work. Your treatment can be expensive. If you don't get immediate treatment, your illness may prove fatal. This is also true if you consume a dangerous food such as pufferfish or ackee fruit.
How Doctors Test for Food Poisoning
When you first get to the hospital, a healthcare professional will do a thorough physical examination. They'll check your blood pressure and vital signs.
The timeline for food poisoning varies, depending on what you ate. This will also determine the treatment approach your doctor takes. Let your medical team know when the symptoms started. Also, tell them if you've recently visited any strange restaurants.
Doctors test for food poisoning, such as E. coli and botulism, by running blood tests, stool cultures, and other tests. Make sure you tell your doctor what symptoms you're experiencing. They'll also need to know what foods you ate and when you consumed them.
How a Diagnosis Can Support Your Legal Claim
Your attorney must prove your illness to prevail in a legal claim against a restaurant, store, or other food distributor. It's easier to do this if you have a formal diagnosis.
Your doctor must enter specific information in your medical record. For example, they will note your illness timeline and the type of organism. Your medical records will help prove your claim and injury.
Why Food Poisoning Can Be Hard To Diagnose
It can be challenging to prove a food poisoning case. By the time you retain an attorney, you probably feel better. Even if you have medical records proving your illness, your attorney may be unable to prove damages.
This is why you must contact a product liability lawyer immediately after you recover from your illness. If your condition lasts more than a few days, have a friend or family member contact an attorney.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- A lawyer can help seek fair compensation on your behalf
- Accident and injury claims are complex and insurance carriers have lawyers on their side
Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions about your accident. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
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