During the holiday season, we tend to cook way more than usual. One unfortunate side effect of this is that cases of food poisoning tend to rise due to improper preparation and storage of food. Food poisoning happens when you consume food that has been contaminated with a virus or bacteria. Typically proper cooking can kill any pathogens that could make you sick, however, undercooked foods or spoiled foods pose an invisible risk to your stomach. Keep reading to learn tips for preventing food poisoning this holiday season. If you need diagnosis or treatment for illness symptoms, AFC Bedford is here to help. Our walk-in urgent care clinic in Bedford, MA offers same-day care with no appointment needed - simply walk-in!
What Causes Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is caused by eating contaminated foods. Foods become contaminated with various bacteria and viruses during processing, in the grocery store, improper storage, and improper preparation. In most cases, these viruses and bacteria are impossible to see or detect. However, in some cases, spoiled food that has grown bacteria may smell putrid. Because of this, it can be impossible to know whether the food you’re eating has been contaminated which makes food poisoning difficult to avoid.
How to Prevent Food Poisoning
The best way to prevent food poisoning is to closely take note of proper food storage and preparation. If you’re cooking your own food, always be sure to evaluate it for any abnormalities before you prepare it. Follow food storage instructions closely including refrigeration suggestions and best-by dates. If you’re consuming meat or seafood, always opt to have them cooked thoroughly at restaurants and check their internal temperature at home by using a meat thermometer. Cooking your meats thoroughly to the suggested internal temperature on the package kills pathogens that can make you sick, while eating raw or undercooked meats leave you at risk of consuming harmful bacteria.
Food Poisoning Symptoms & Treatment
Food poisoning symptoms can appear anywhere from a few hours up to several days after you consume contaminated food. Food poisoning itself is not contagious, however, multiple people may get sick from eating the same contaminated food. Symptoms can be intense and can last anywhere from 24 hours to weeks depending on what kind of bacteria or virus contaminated your food.
Typical food poisoning symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramping
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Body chills
Walk Into AFC Bedford for Food Poisoning Treatment in Bedford, MA
If you’re experiencing any symptoms associated with food poisoning, AFC Urgent Care Bedford is here to provide same-day diagnosis and symptom treatment. In most cases, food poisoning will go away on its own over time, however, it can cause complications if symptoms are too severe to allow for eating or drinking. Our board-certified medical providers will evaluate your symptoms and provide supportive care to ensure that you recover quickly from your symptoms. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you for same-day care - we’re open 7 days a week!
