Food Poisoning

Food poisoning can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration. Speak to an AHPRA-registered doctor online if symptoms persist or you have concerns about your recovery.

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

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 can conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide an appropriate care.

Note: If you experience blood in your stool or vomit, severe or persistent abdominal pain, inability to keep fluids down, signs of severe dehydration, confusion, or difficulty breathing, call 000 or attend an Emergency Department immediately.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does food poisoning last?

Most cases of food poisoning improve within one to three days. Some bacterial or parasitic infections may last longer. If symptoms are severe, last for more than a few days, or don’t improve, see a doctor.

Is food poisoning contagious? 

It actually depends on the cause. Some germs, like norovirus, that cause food poisoning, can spread from person to person. Good hand hygiene helps prevent virus spread.

How can I manage food poisoning at home?

The main management is hydration. Drink small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration solution to replace lost fluids and salts. Get adequate rest, and slowly return to eating simple foods such as toast, bananas, rice, and crackers. Avoid fatty, spicy meals, dairy products, and alcohol until your symptoms improve.

What causes food poisoning?

Bacteria, viruses, or toxins in contaminated food usually cause food poisoning. Common culprits include undercooked meat, raw seafood, unpasteurised dairy products, contaminated fresh produce, and food that has not been stored properly.

How can I prevent food poisoning?

Wash your hands before handling food, and clean food preparation surfaces well. Cook food at the right temperature, keep raw and cooked foods separate, always wash fruits and vegetables, refrigerate perishable foods and leftovers promptly, and avoid eating food that is spoilt.