If you’re suffering from the flu or another viral infection, you should consult your doctor to rule out food poisoning. You might experience a fever as a result of food poisoning. The duration of the symptoms varies from person to person. In children, the fever may be a few hours or it could last for 24 hours. If you experience a fever for longer than 48 hours, you should avoid returning to work or school.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a fever-reducing medication and rest to treat your symptoms. In more serious cases, however, he or she may refer you to the hospital and administer antibiotics and intravenous fluids. While most people recover without hospitalization, more serious cases of food poisoning may require inpatient treatment. You may also need to undergo blood tests and imaging tests.
In some cases, symptoms of food poisoning may look like those of a stomach virus or a head cold. In the latter case, your symptoms may persist for three to 10 days, but are usually under control by then. The CDC recommends that you stay well-hydrated and drink plenty of fluids, including fluids with electrolytes, as dehydration can lead to dangerous complications. So, be sure to consult your doctor right away if you are experiencing symptoms of a stomach virus.
Symptoms of food poisoning can begin as early as 24 hours after you eat contaminated food. Some symptoms can last for weeks, but most people recover on their own. Drink lots of fluids and avoid caffeine and sugary drinks. In addition to water, you may also experience a low-grade fever or head and muscle aches. If your symptoms last longer than a day, it’s important to consult your GP. In severe cases, you may need hospital treatment, which may include intravenous fluids and IV electrolytes.
