Food Poisoning

Food poisoning can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and dehydration, making prompt medical advice crucial. Our Australian-registered online doctors are available 24/7 to provide medical guidance.

When to consult a doctor for food poisoning?

If symptoms are severe or last longer than 48 hours

If vomiting or diarrhoea continues beyond 48 hours, becomes severe, or does not improve with rest and fluids, medical evaluation is important to rule out bacterial infections or complications.

If you notice signs of dehydration or high fever

Seek medical advice if you experience dizziness, dry mouth, dark urine, excessive thirst, or a persistent fever above 38.5°C. These signs may indicate that your body is struggling to cope with the infection.

If you develop concerning or high-risk symptoms

Consult a GP if you notice experience blurred vision, muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, or if symptoms occur in babies, older adults, pregnant women, or people with weakened immune systems.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & Medically reviewed by Dr.Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually develop within hours to a few days after consuming contaminated food and can range from mild to severe. Common signs include:

Nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick or throwing up frequently

Diarrhoea: Loose or watery stools. In some cases, particularly with bacterial infections such as E. coli, diarrhoea may contain blood

Stomach pain and cramps: Discomfort or sharp pains in the abdomen

Fever and chills: Elevated body temperature with shivering

Fatigue and weakness: Feeling extremely tired or drained

Loss of appetite: Reduced desire to eat due to nausea

Dehydration: Dry mouth, dizziness, low urine output, or excessive thirst

Causes

Food poisoning occurs when food or drinks become contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. Below are the most common causes:

Bacterial contamination: Certain bacteria multiply rapidly in food, producing toxins that cause illness. Common bacterial culprits include:

Viral infections: Certain viruses can spread through contaminated food and water:

Parasitic infections: Though less common, some parasites can cause foodborne illness:

Toxins and chemicals: Some foods naturally produce toxins, while others become toxic due to contamination:

Improper food handling: Poor hygiene and incorrect food storage can lead to contamination:

How telehealth can help

Hola Health provides a convenient way for you to consult a doctor online, 24/7 across Australia. Our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care.

Clinical note: An online GP assessment helps provide medical advice for your food poising symptoms and evaluate if a face-to-face consultation or physical examination is needed. Online GPs can provide prescriptions, referrals or online medical certificates if clinically indicated. Telehealth is a complementary service; a physical examination may be required to assess further symptoms. Bulk billing is available for eligible patients during Medicare-defined after-hours periods; otherwise, private fees apply. Consultations are secure, encrypted, and Australian-stored (in compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles). In case of emergency (like blood in your stool or vomit, severe or persistent stomach pain, etc), call 000 immediately. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.