These illnesses occur when a person ingests harmful toxins, contaminants, parasites, microorganisms and chemicals. The most prevalent type of food poisoning is salmonellosis (associated with eggs), Staphylococcus, Clostridium botulinum, Campylobacter jejuni, Giardia lamblia and Escherichia coli.
Symptoms of salmonellosis: abdominal pain, diarrhoea, dehydration and fever. Symptoms develop within 8 to 36 hours of consuming the contaminated food.
Symptoms of staphylococcus infection: diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and prostration.
Symptoms of Clostridium infection: muscle paralysis (starting with eye muscles), extreme weakness, double vision, droopy eyelids and trouble swallowing.
Symptoms of Campylobacter infection: abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, fever and blood in the stool.
Symptoms of Giardiasis: diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, flatulence and nausea.
Who to consult: Dietician, GP, herbalist, naturopath, pharmacist.
