The development of the first signs of food poisoning in an adult can occur already in the first hours after intoxication. The severity of symptoms of food poisoning depends on the amount of food eaten or on the type of toxin that has affected the human body. The patient’s condition is influenced by individual characteristics: age, possible concomitant diseases that worsen health, level of immunity.

Most often, food poisoning in an adult does not require treatment in a hospital; all measures to alleviate well-being are carried out at home.

Stomach cleansing. If there is no vomiting, then it is advisable to induce it artificially. After the first urge, you should drink about half a liter of warm water; for better cleansing, a weak solution of potassium permanganate, soda or salt is added to it. Repeat the procedure after each urge to vomit until clean water, without food masses.

Restoration of water-salt balance. With food poisoning, dehydration is observed in an adult already on the first day. After excessive vomiting or diarrhea, fluid intake is necessary. A solution with added salt and sugar, mineral water or Regidron solution is suitable for this. You need to drink water slowly, for this it is enough to take 2-3 sips every 10-15 minutes.

Hunger. If there are strong signs of poisoning and profuse vomiting, the patient is advised to fast; nutrition can only be started the next day. This is necessary to resume the functioning of the digestive organs, restore the intestinal and gastric microflora. Fasting is not recommended for children and pregnant women.

Reception medicines. To speed up the elimination of toxins, you should take sorbents. They can be taken if you suspect the probable development of the disease before the first symptoms appear. To improve the condition of an adult with food poisoning, it is allowed to take antispasmodics and antipyretics.

Prohibited actions. The patient should not take antiemetics and antidiarrheals on the first day of the disease - the human body must cleanse itself naturally, this should not be prevented. It is also prohibited to consume any food after an acute attack.

Food intoxication manifests itself quite quickly. In some situations, the first symptoms are diagnosed thirty minutes after the toxin enters the stomach. But it is possible that negative signs will appear after a few hours or days. What is recommended to pay attention to?

Signs:

1. deterioration of general condition,
2. nausea, vomiting,
3. pain in the intestines, stomach,
4. intense diarrhea,
5. dizziness, headaches,
6. drowsiness,
7. increased body temperature,
8. discomfort in muscle tissue,
9. with liver damage, pain in the right side.

In case of severe poisoning, convulsive manifestations and impaired consciousness are not excluded. Entering the body with salmonella or botulinum toxin can lead to serious consequences and death. The danger of poisoning is dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea.

1. The time at which the first symptoms appear and the symptoms themselves depend on what caused the poisoning. If a person is poisoned by poor-quality food, the first signs of intoxication usually appear 2-4 hours after eating. If the cause is poisonous mushrooms, berries or plants, usually within 4-12 hours.
2. Characteristic symptoms of toxic infection are nausea, vomiting, colic, diarrhea. If a headache appears, body temperature rises, pulse quickens, a person feels general weakness, and the skin becomes bluish - these are signs of acute intoxication. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
3. Poisoning with mushrooms, plants and berries can develop slowly and rapidly. In this case, every minute is precious to save a person’s life.
4. Food poisoning can be treated at home only if the degree of intoxication is mild. But it is to treat, and not to let things take their course. If threatening symptoms of intoxication appear, hospitalization is necessary.

Especially if the cause of poisoning was mushrooms, canned foods, or alcoholic beverages. If a child experiences nausea or diarrhea after eating, it is recommended to immediately call a doctor.

What to do if you or your loved ones have symptoms of poisoning after eating? First of all, analyze what could have caused it. If the day before a person ate mushrooms, berries, canned foods, or drank alcohol, it is recommended that you immediately call an ambulance. Before the doctors arrive, the victim needs first aid. The same principles should be followed by a person with mild poisoning.

Stomach cleansing. Through bouts of vomiting, the body tries to cleanse itself of toxins. A person needs to drink plenty of fluids. You need to drink until vomiting stops completely. During the last attack, the vomit should be a relatively clear liquid without food or mucus. This means that the stomach has cleared.

If vomiting does not occur spontaneously, it must be induced. To do this, use an aqueous solution of salt, baking soda or a weak solution of potassium permanganate. The solution irritates the walls of the stomach, and purgative vomiting begins. If this does not happen, then it must be caused by irritation of the root of the tongue.

If a person is unconscious, delirious or very weakened, you should not induce vomiting at home. He may choke on vomit. For children under 2 years of age and patients after strokes and heart attacks, gastric lavage should be performed by qualified specialists.

Taking medications. First aid medications for food poisoning include absorbents and coating agents. Absorbents such as Activated carbon can be used to prepare a solution for gastric lavage or taken in other ways according to the instructions. These drugs bind and remove toxic substances from the digestive tract.

Drink plenty of fluids. The liquid helps speed up the removal of toxins from the body in case of food poisoning. Drinking is also necessary to replace fluid loss that occurs during vomiting and diarrhea.

After food poisoning, it is recommended to drink regular boiled water with lemon, fruit drinks, still alkaline mineral water, black tea, and chamomile infusion. There are pharmaceutical preparations designed to restore the acid-base balance disturbed by vomiting and diarrhea.

In addition, warm drinks help a person warm up and relieve pain. Vascular spasms during poisoning cause large heat losses, so the person freezes. To keep warm, he just needs to wrap himself in a blanket and apply a heating pad to his feet.

Part of the treatment for food poisoning is diet. In the first day after the symptoms of poisoning have disappeared, only drinking is possible. If you feel hungry, you can eat a small amount of homemade white bread crackers. Next, the food should be light, boiled, chopped.

Depending on what caused the poisoning, you may need to take medications, for example, bactericides, drugs to combat dysbiosis, enzyme preparations. These medications should only be taken on the advice of a doctor.

The first emergency aid for any acute poisoning is immediate gastric lavage.

• If you suspect that the poisoning is recent, then the first thing to do is wash out the stomach a weak solution of potassium permanganate, causing vomiting.

It’s done simply, although disgustingly - drink a couple or three glasses of this pink water and put two fingers in your mouth, pressing on the root of your tongue. However, sometimes it’s enough just to drink the solution, and the body itself will say: “Be.”

• As soon as the contents of the stomach have left their home, it’s time to think about reducing intoxication, because some of the toxins managed to be absorbed and went to do their “dirty” business.

You need to take activated carbon (1 tablet per 10 kg of weight). Sometimes, after taking charcoal, the urge to vomit appears again, it is advisable to endure them for at least twenty to thirty minutes; if possible, the charcoal begins to actively adsorb from the first minutes of exposure.

Then after vomiting, about half an hour later, when everything has calmed down and the cramps in the stomach have gone away, try taking charcoal again. As a rule, the second attempt is more successful and activated carbon begins its journey through the gastrointestinal tract.

• In the meantime, we will rest, because, as a rule, poisoning is accompanied by general symptoms- headache and weakness. A cloth with cool salty water is just right to accompany such a “rest.”

Salt draws out toxins, coolness soothes and relieves tension, which naturally exists, because no one wants to get sick.

• Then the most important thing drink and drink again.

First, clean water, then, if there is no negative reaction, you can try weak tea with honey, herbal infusions with anti-inflammatory herbs, for example, chamomile. So, drink as much as you like, but don’t eat! Even if you already want it!

In such cases, the best thing is a water-tea break! Daily fasting (24 or 36 hours) will get you back in shape much faster than if you only follow a diet after poisoning.

And even more so, I do not advise anyone, even if they feel well, to start eating as usual after a couple of hours. With all the frills.

To summarize, first aid for poisoning should be quick, toxins continue to be absorbed and carry out their poisoning effect while you are thinking and panicking, ideally so that each person knows in advance how to act in such an emergency situation.

Severe digestive upset caused by bacteria or toxins that enter the stomach along with food is considered acute poisoning. It deprives you of appetite, taste for life and ability to work for a long time, and often threatens with unpleasant consequences.

• Rinse the stomach. To do this, the patient drinks a liter of potassium permanganate solution (a faint pink tint). After this, press on the root of the tongue and induce vomiting. Do this until the vomit becomes more liquid and free of any impurities.
• Take any of the absorbents listed above (.
• Empty your bowels. If the patient cannot do this on his own, he needs to give an enema with chamomile decoction.
• Warm the patient. You can take a hot bath, and then put him in a warm bed, cover him with a blanket, and put a heating pad in his feet.
• Provide the patient with plenty of fluids.

• Treatment of food poisoning
• The symptoms of food poisoning are familiar to everyone - vomiting, diarrhea, as well as general weakness with fever make a person think about what he ate the day before, since it is the nutritional history that the doctor initially finds out when interviewing the patient.
• Many people do not seek help from doctors for food poisoning, but such heroism can end sadly, especially when it comes to small children.
• Understand the difference between food poisoning and acute intestinal infections, learn to recognize the symptoms characteristic of a particular food poisoning - this is what we will discuss in our article.

Classification of food poisoning

Intoxications of this group are diseases of bacterial origin. The similarity of the mechanism of development of poisoning, symptoms, treatment used and preventive measures combine them into the group “foodborne toxic infections”. They differ only in the causative agents of diseases.

There is the following classification of types of food poisoning:

• staphylococcal toxic infections;
• food poisoning caused by parahemolytic vibrios;
• clostridia - diseases caused by clostridia;
• cereosis - poisoning caused by waxy bacilli;
• other bacterial food poisoning - specified and unknown etiology.

Toxic infections are diseases of a microbial nature. But food poisoning can also occur when it contains toxic substances or pathogenic bacteria. Diseases of non-microbial origin and intestinal infections do not belong to this group of intoxications. According to the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10), bacterial food poisoning has the code A05.

Food poisoning is one of the most unpleasant conditions. Everything hurts - stomach, intestines, temperature rises, bones ache, etc. The degree of departure can be so strong that it is impossible to do without medical intervention.

What nuances do you need to know about food poisoning, what to do in case of food poisoning and how to help yourself or to a loved one before the doctor arrives? Let's figure it out.

Diagnoses that may result from poisoning

If the food contains certain harmful bacteria, they can provoke the development of unpleasant diseases that require long-term medical treatment.

The most common diseases resulting from poisoning include:

1. Dysentery – acute infection, the development of which is provoked by the bacterium Shigella. It is characterized by severe intoxication of the whole body and inflammation of the intestines. The disease is popularly known as bloody diarrhea" In cases of complications, dysentery is dangerous due to possible intestinal rupture. Requires drug treatment.
2. Botulism is a complex infectious disease that is accompanied by severe intoxication. Botulism rods most often multiply in improperly canned foods, fish, and sausages. At the slightest suspicion of the possibility of infection with botulism, you should consult a doctor. In cases of untimely treatment, the disease is dangerous due to irreversible damage. nervous system and can be fatal.
3. Escherichiasis is an infectious disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract. Poisoning due to escherichiasis is accompanied by the development of acute enterocolitis and enteritis. Infection can occur in the absence of hygiene, through water and food, and is often observed in young children. Definitely requires medical intervention and medication.
4. Salmonellosis is a type of intestinal infection that is accompanied by severe intoxication and affects the gastrointestinal tract. If not treated promptly, it can cause the development of renal failure. Requires mandatory contact with a medical institution.

Causes

Most opportunistic bacteria exist in soil, water and in the intestines of those who have been poisoned or are carriers of the disease. If the rules of hygiene, preparation, and storage of food are violated, these microorganisms enter the human body.

The main causes of poisoning are:

• infection with dirty hands while eating or preparing it;
• ingestion of food from catering workers suffering from staphylococcal infections;
• entering the body with non-disinfected water;
• violation of rules for storing or selling products.

Food poisoning is a “dirty food” disease. These toxic infections are characterized by seasonality. They occur more often in summer and autumn.

Poisoning occurs when two types of toxic agents enter the body. Group 1. Infections caused by protozoa, viruses or microbes. These include E. coli, staphylococci, salmonella, botulinum and listerine, shigella (dysentery), rota and enteroviruses. Food prepared by a person infected with microorganisms becomes a source of disease. Group 2.

Toxic poisoning caused by ingestion of inedible mushrooms, plants, poison, heavy metals or chemical toxins contained in food. For example, toxic dyes, preservatives; fertilizers or heavy metal salts found in vegetables or fruits growing in environmentally polluted regions.

Subsequently, the patient can accurately determine which food caused the poisoning. Food contaminated with microorganisms may look and smell normal, it’s just that the toxic agents inside have not yet begun to multiply.

There are a number of foods that should be treated with caution, especially on hot days:

• milk products;
• raw and undercooked eggs;
• dishes with raw, uncooked fish or meat;
• cream cakes, pastries;
• homemade preparations;
• salads dressed with mayonnaise;
• all perishable foods (especially cottage cheese, sausages, salads);
• products in packaging whose integrity has been compromised.

In case of food poisoning, the sooner treatment is started, the faster the patient’s well-being will improve. If measures are taken quickly in case of infectious poisoning, improvement in the condition may occur within a few hours after the onset of the disease. Treatment is best carried out under the supervision of a doctor. You should definitely call a doctor if an elderly person, child or pregnant woman falls ill. Toxic poisoning in most cases can only be treated in an inpatient setting.

Toxic infections – staphylococcal toxicosis and botulism, mycotoxicosis, mixed toxic infections, etc.; toxic organic and inorganic substances; violation of food production technology and improper storage, non-compliance with temperature conditions; contamination, contamination of food with bacteria;

An excellent environment for the growth of bacteria are multi-component salads, brawn and aspic, meat dishes, desserts with a cream base, canned mushrooms and dried fish. If you have even the slightest doubt about the suitability of foods intended for human consumption, it is better to refuse them.

Dysregulation of nerve signals provokes vomiting after poisoning. If you correctly influence the central or adjacent links, you can prevent active gastric contraction. Agents that have an enveloping and astringent effect do an excellent job of blocking nerve receptors. These include neurotropins. Tropisetron, Ondansetron, and Metoclopramide have a good antiemetic effect in case of poisoning.

To eliminate this symptom, doctors prescribe anticholinergic medications with antihistamines. These include Promethazine, Diphenhydramine. Trifluoperazine and Haloperidol have high antiemetic activity. Among the anti-vomiting tablets, Avioplant, Bonin, Bimaral, Ondator, Latran, Kitril and others are often prescribed. Normalization of the diet is mandatory during treatment.

Signs of food poisoning

Food poisoning can occur due to the consumption of spoiled, expired food, as well as dishes contaminated with an intestinal infection (salmonellosis, dysentery, E. coli).

Symptoms of the disease develop during the first 6 hours. The rate of their increase depends on the cause of the disease, the amount eaten, the condition of the person’s body and his age.

Please note that children, pregnant women and the elderly are more susceptible to food poisoning. They are more susceptible to severe disease and complications.

• nausea followed by vomiting, which brings relief. In the vomit you can see the remains of food eaten, which has not yet had time to be digested. With repeated vomiting, only bile and gastric juice come out;
• profuse diarrhea. The type and consistency of stool depends on the cause of poisoning. So, with salmonellosis they will be greenish and foamy, and with dysentery they will be watery, streaked with blood. The number of trips to the toilet can exceed 20 times a day. Repeated diarrhea leads to rapid dehydration;
• hyperthermia - an increase in body temperature. With an intestinal infection, it can rise to 39 degrees. The stronger the intoxication, the higher the temperature;
• Abdominal pain can be sharp or aching. With inflammation of the gastric mucosa, it is localized in the epigastric region of the abdomen, with liver damage - in the right hypochondrium. If the pancreas suffers as a result of poisoning, the pain becomes acute and irritating. With increased gas formation, flatulence, intestinal colic is observed;
• headache, general weakness, dizziness - signs of intoxication syndrome;
• tachycardia – rapid heartbeat, in which the pulse rate exceeds 100-120 beats/min.

In case of severe poisoning, for example, in the case of eating poisonous varieties of mushrooms, damage to the central nervous system develops. The patient may lose consciousness and enter a deep coma. He may experience hallucinations and seizures (as with epilepsy).

Vomiting helps remove toxins from the body.

Symptoms of food poisoning depend on a number of conditions: the type of microorganism and toxin, the amount of poison ingested, the general health of the body, etc.

But at the same time, a number of standard signs of poisoning can be identified, which are observed in 95% of cases:

• nausea is usually the body’s first signal that a toxin has entered it;
• vomiting – follows nausea, is aimed at removing a toxic substance through the mouth in order to prevent its absorption into the blood and further spread throughout the body;
• painful abdominal cramps - localized in the stomach area, below the navel or in the upper abdomen;
• diarrhea - appears due to irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa under the influence of toxins;
• low-grade body temperature – inhibits the activity and reproduction of bacteria and viruses, triggers immune defense mechanisms;
• general weakness;
• lack of appetite.

All these processes have a cleansing function and are aimed at quickly ridding the body of toxins and poisons. There is no need to hinder them, but you also cannot do nothing. Therefore, everyone should know what to do when food poisoning occurs. This is discussed in more detail in the video in this article.

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, stool disorders (diarrhea), general weakness are the main symptoms of food poisoning.

The first symptoms of poisoning may appear 30 minutes after eating low-quality foods, but sometimes more than a day may pass before signs of the disease appear. Typical signs food poisoning:

• painful nausea;
• repeated vomiting of eaten food, gastric juice, and then an ineffective urge to vomit;
• excessive salivation;
• diarrhea is foul-smelling and contains remnants of undigested food;
• increased body temperature, chills;
• weakness, dizziness;
• dysfunctions of the central nervous system, which may be characteristic of botulism.

Symptoms may persist for 1-3 days, gradually subsiding. During the week after food poisoning, victims may experience weakness, abdominal pain, and flatulence.

Among everyday diseases, the leading position is occupied by complications after drinking alcoholic beverages, often resulting in death. If you suspect alcohol poisoning, symptoms may include:

• Emotional arousal, increased motor activity. The person seems to be in euphoria, moving away from all problems.
• Redness of the skin, mainly of the face.
• Stomach pain associated with the damaging effects of ethanol contained in alcohol.
• Nausea, vomiting.
• Increased sweating.
• Dilated pupils due to the effect of ethanol on the nervous system.
• Impaired thermoregulation.
• General weakness.
• Low pressure.
• Violation of water-mineral balance: increase or decrease in urination.
• Pain in the right hypochondrium due to liver damage.
• Breathing is noisy and rapid.
• Inability to perceive reality.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of food poisoning is based on analyzing the symptoms of the disease and identifying its connection with the intake of poor-quality food. The massive nature of intoxication helps diagnosis.

To determine the causative agent of food poisoning, bacteriological and serological studies are carried out. The diagnosis is considered confirmed if the microorganisms isolated from the remains of food and the patient’s feces match.

Differential diagnosis is carried out by comparing the symptoms of food poisoning, intestinal infections and viral diseases. For example, rotavirus gastroenteritis differs from food poisoning by colds - runny nose, sore throat, cough. And with intestinal infections, local symptoms are more pronounced - frequent loose stools, the urge to defecate.

How to Avoid Food Poisoning

• Maintain cleanliness when preparing and eating food. Wash your hands thoroughly, throw away leftover food in the trash, and wash dishes with hot water and detergent. Food should be stored in closed containers. Keep animals away from food preparation areas.
• Keep raw foods separate from processed foods. Raw meat and fish may contain pathogenic bacteria, which can “move” to other, ready-made products.
• Potentially hazardous products must be subjected to careful heat treatment. Most dangerous microorganisms die at high temperatures.
• store food at low temperatures. In foods and dishes left in a warm place, pathogenic microorganisms multiply at high speed.
• water and food must be of high quality. Products that have expired, as well as rotten ones, should be thrown away immediately.

What not to do if you have food poisoning

In some cases, it is prohibited to induce vomiting in case of food poisoning:

• a child less than 12 months old is injured - may choke;
• the patient is in a faint state, weakness of the heart muscle is observed - for a similar reason;
• take painkillers;
• give the victim carbonated water or drink;
• intentionally suppress natural vomiting;
• independently prescribe antibiotics to a patient, without consulting a doctor;
• take antidiarrheal drugs - they can interfere with the elimination of poisons; such drugs are prescribed only by a doctor;
• before the final diagnosis is made, consume food and drinks, especially alcohol;
• use warming or cooling compresses on the abdomen - they can speed up the absorption of toxins;
• treat a poisoned person with folk remedies;
• leave the victim without first medical care, observation and ignore the symptoms of severe intoxication.

Food poisoning is caused by a large number of bacteria in the stomach. This pathology does not last long, but it is very active. Therefore, it is important to know how to act so as not to harm your body.

Poisoning occurs from products that are contaminated with toxins or pathogenic bacteria. Eating poisonous mushrooms can also be considered food poisoning. It is worth noting that in case of poisoning with ordinary food and mushrooms, first aid to the patient will be different.

The most dangerous products include meat, various sausages and canned food, as well as dairy products and milk itself. Minced meat, such as pate and jellied meat, is more susceptible to infection.

We will talk in more detail about the symptoms of poisoning, and also tell you how to provide first aid.

Types of poisoning

Food poisoning is classified into groups; experts distinguish two types, these include microbial and non-microbial. Each of them should be discussed in more detail.

• Microbial contamination:
• microscopic fungi;
• coli;
• botulinum bacillus;
• enterococci;
• staphylococci;
• Proteus;
• parahemolytic vibrio.
• This is not the entire list that can be included in microbial damage to the intestinal tract, but these are the microorganisms that are most often encountered in medical practice.
• Non-microbial contamination:
• poisoning of the human body by toxic substances contained in plants;
• poisoning by products that contain toxins that were formed due to improper storage;
• chemical additives that may be present in food products include nitrates, harmful additives and pesticides.

If a person has eaten poor-quality food and the first symptoms appear, it is necessary to find out what to do in case of food poisoning. First aid should be provided at home.

Main signs of food poisoning

If stomach upset manifests itself with severe symptoms, the patient must be given first aid as soon as possible. If you do not provide assistance to the patient in a timely manner, the toxins will continue to poison the body, thereby worsening the patient’s symptoms and well-being, which can lead to serious consequences.

1. The main signs of food poisoning:
2. attacks of nausea, sudden profuse vomiting (can occur repeatedly);
3. diarrhea develops, while the stool has a pungent odor, most often the stool is watery, it contains pieces of undigested food;
4. there is weakness in the body, darkening of the eyes and severe dizziness due to intoxication;
5. Gases accumulate in the abdomen, which causes bloating, cramps and pain may occur;
6. in some cases, blood pressure decreases or increases, the heartbeat increases;
7. headaches occur;
8. the patient loses appetite;
9. with severe poisoning and intoxication, there is chills and increased body temperature.

Since the symptoms are quite serious and can greatly worsen the patient’s condition, everyone should know what to do in case of food poisoning.

There are a lot of serious intestinal diseases that pose a serious danger to the body. These diseases include:

• rotavirus infection;
• dysentery;
• botulism;
• salmonellosis;
• intestinal flu.

All these diseases require hospitalization of the patient, as they can lead to some complications. To treat most diseases on this list, doctors use antibacterial drugs and antiviral agents. Additionally, a diet is used.

Seven basic rules for providing assistance

Cleansing the intestines and stomach. It is very important to remove toxins from the body, since acute poisoning was caused by food, it is enough to lavage the stomach. To do this, the patient is given several glasses of clean water to drink, and then vomited.

This should be done several times until only clean water comes out of the stomach. You should not use anti-vomiting pills right away, since with the help of this reflex, the body tries to cleanse itself of toxins. This also applies to bouts of diarrhea.

After cleansing the stomach, it is allowed to use drugs.

Stopping intoxication of the body. To do this, doctors use sorbents that help collect all the toxins in the stomach and intestines and then remove them out. For these purposes, Polysorb, Activated carbon or Enterosgel are used. All drugs are very effective.

Antiemetic. If attacks of vomiting continue, and the stomach has already been washed, the patient is allowed to give a drug that helps stop the gag reflex. Cerucal is most often used in tablets.

Preventing dehydration. An important part of first aid for a patient, since dehydration can be fatal in severe cases.

Boiled and mineral water are also allowed.

Refusal of food. If the poisoning is not severe and the patient does not need the help of doctors, then it is enough not to give the patient food for 24 hours. After this, it is allowed to use dietary food that will not overload the stomach and intestines.

Emergency call. If there are acute signs of diarrhea, persistent vomiting or loss of consciousness, the patient should immediately call an ambulance. If you lose consciousness, performing gastric lavage yourself is strictly prohibited.

Restoration of the stomach and intestines. After poisoning for two weeks, the patient should take enzyme preparations and probiotics. Probiotics include Lactobacterin, the most well-known enzyme preparations are Festal and Enzymtal, and Mezim can also be used.

We have described in as much detail as possible what to do in case of food poisoning; it is worth considering that you should not use antibiotics or cleansing enemas at home. Only the attending physician can prescribe antibacterial agents; such therapy is used only after the type of pathogen has been established.

First aid for a child

Children are especially susceptible to food poisoning because their digestive systems cannot always cope with bacteria and germs.

Parents must remember that they cannot provide first aid to a child under one year old on their own; they should immediately call an ambulance.

Children under three years of age who show signs of poisoning are hospitalized; performing gastric lavage on their own is strictly prohibited for such children. If there are signs of intoxication, parents can provide first aid:

1. the patient is provided with complete rest;
2. the child should be placed on his side and ensure that vomit does not enter the baby’s respiratory tract;
3. until the vomiting completely disappears, the patient should not be given food;
4. You can wash the stomach of children from five years old by diluting a teaspoon of soda in a liter of water;
5. when the child drinks the solution, the parents press the root of the tongue with their finger, thereby inducing vomiting;
6. after this the patient is given a sorbent.
7. Prevention

Prevention of poisoning is quite simple, just buy products and monitor their expiration dates. In addition, you should not violate the rules for storing meat and dairy products, as well as dishes made from them.

Statistics show that home-cooked meals are safer, so it's best to avoid eateries and fast food outlets. It is recommended to purchase products in large supermarkets and trusted stores.

It is worth refusing to buy meat in tents along the road, as well as purchasing dairy products that do not have a quality certificate.

Signs of food poisoning in humans are closely related to the course of the pathological process in the body. At the first symptoms, immediate treatment is required.

But there are methods of therapy that cannot be used in case of poisoning:

• use medicines, enhancing the motility of the digestive system;
• you should not use drugs that promote stool consolidation;
• apply enzymes;
• use choleretic agents to treat poisoning;
• drink analgesics.

Despite the fact that women in this position are much more attentive to their diet, this does not exclude the chance of encountering spoiled foods and poisons. Food poisoning during pregnancy can worsen the condition of the expectant mother, and therefore her baby:

1. Severe intoxication disrupts the blood supply to the fetus
2. Dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea leads to wastage and resulting deficiency of important vitamins and minerals.
3. In acute poisoning, the risk of miscarriage increases

That is why the disease should be dealt with under the strict supervision of doctors. At the first serious symptoms, an ambulance is called. They try not to provoke vomiting in a pregnant woman (this threatens to increase uterine tone), relying on the natural emptying of the stomach through drinking plenty of fluids. After emptying, enterosorbent is given in full dose. Lost fluid is promptly replenished with rehydrating solutions. Read also: Mushroom poisoning: symptoms and treatment.

• Recovery from poisoning is complicated by the fact that the patient is prescribed therapeutic fasting and a strict diet, but her baby needs standard nutrition. Therefore, it will not be possible to give up food completely. For the first three days, lean croutons, light chicken broth (without floating fat) are introduced into the diet. vegetable soups, mashed to a puree consistency. On days 4-5, liquid porridge and whole stewed vegetables are added. Eat often, but in small portions, so as not to burden the gastrointestinal tract. Fruits, fish and meat are not included in the menu until complete recovery.
• Food poisoning from mushrooms poses a particular danger to pregnant women. Plant poisons tend to penetrate the placenta and reach the fetus directly. Therefore, mushrooms are in company with raw fish and rare steaks are considered prohibited foods for the entire nine-month gestation period.

Treatment

This problem is especially relevant in the summer, during the season of travel and summer cottages, when there is a temptation to try something new or eat unwashed berries, fruits or vegetables straight from the garden.

In addition, in the summer, food spoils faster and consuming it can lead to unpleasant consequences.

Home remedies that address the symptoms and causes can help you get rid of food poisoning. Mild intoxication will go away on its own.

Particular attention should be paid to pathogens dangerous diseases: salmonella and shigella. After diagnosis with a positive result, it is recommended to be treated in medical institutions.

Treatment for mild food poisoning is carried out at home. In more severe cases, hospitalization in a hospital is required.

In case of acute food poisoning, treatment begins with gastric lavage. It is carried out with a 0.5% solution of baking soda, 0.1% or potassium permanganate. If a person suffers from a stomach ulcer, coronary heart disease, or has a significant decrease in blood pressure, then lavage is not performed.

The main directions of treatment for food poisoning are as follows.

1. Replenishment of fluid deficiency and detoxification of the body, which is carried out with water-salt solutions. The route of administration (oral or intravenous) depends on the severity of food poisoning. Taking sorbents also reduces intoxication.
2. Restoration of damaged functions of the stomach and intestines. Why are astringents used to reduce irritation of the mucous membranes, as well as intestinal aseptics that suppress the activity of bacteria? After a course of treatment with these drugs, probiotics and enzymes are prescribed to reduce gastric secretory insufficiency and normalize intestinal microflora.
3. Antibacterial therapy. It is used only for severe forms of the disease, when the duration of fever exceeds two days, with severe intoxication and diarrhea. However, if food poisoning occurs in children, the elderly, or patients with immunodeficiency, then antibiotics may be prescribed for a less severe clinical picture.

What over-the-counter medications can be in a home medicine cabinet in case of food poisoning?

1. Powders for dissolution that replenish fluid deficiency - Regidron and Trihydron.
2. Sorbents. Activated carbon preparations - Carbopex, Ultra-adsorb, activated carbon. Lignin preparations - Filtrum-STI, Polifan, Polyphepan. Polysorb MP, Enterosgel.
3. Antidiarrheals - Smecta, Diosmectite, Neosmectin.
4. Intestinal aseptics - Ersefuril, Enterofuril, Stopdiar, Enterol, Intesti-bacteriophage.
5. Probiotics and prebiotics - Bifiform, Probifor, Bifiliz, Florin Forte, Hilak Forte.
6. Antispasmodics - Buscopan, Duspatalin, Meteospasmil, No-shpa, Trimedat.
7. Enzyme preparations - Creon, Mezim Forte, Mikrasim, Panzinorm, Ermital, Festal.

The well-known drug Phosphalugel helps reduce irritation of mucous membranes and neutralize toxins. Although it is more often used in gastroenterological practice. Almagel has an enveloping, astringent effect. Protects the gastric mucosa and relieves diarrhea. But this drug is best used only as a “first aid” remedy.

Since the cause of symptoms is often expired food, it is necessary to use only high-quality products during treatment. Food should have as little impact on the digestive system as possible. First, tea is introduced into the menu, then weak broths, after which boiled and stewed vegetables and boiled porridge without oil are added.

Vomiting and diarrhea cause the loss of large amounts of fluid. To prevent the development of dehydration, you need to drink plenty of fluids.

Features of therapy depend on what caused the intoxication. The doctor's recommendations must be followed. Until the gastric lavage is done, you cannot eat: food will only slow down the process of eliminating toxins and may cause a deterioration in your health.

Pulmonologist, Therapist, Cardiologist, Functional Diagnostics Doctor. Doctor of the highest category. Work experience: 9 years. Graduated from Khabarovsk State Medical Institute, clinical residency in therapy. I am engaged in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases of internal organs, and also conduct medical examinations. I treat diseases of the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, and cardiovascular system.

Naturally, when I write this article, I do not take into account poisoning of young children, poisoning that occurs with severe toxic damage, high fever, loss of consciousness, convulsions, uncontrollable vomiting or diarrhea.

Types of poisoning

The tactics of drug treatment of food poisoning depend on the causes and conditions of occurrence and severity of pathogenesis. If the disease has developed due to the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the digestive tract, the basis of therapy will be antibiotics that are active against the identified pathogen.

For all types of food poisoning, it is necessary to take medications that bind and remove toxins from the gastrointestinal tract and restore water and electrolyte balance. Other drugs are selected taking into account symptoms.

If symptoms of food poisoning appear, you need to identify the cause of their occurrence. Any diagnosis involves collecting information about the patient - a list of foods or drinks consumed, their quantity, as well as the presence of specific diseases that may affect the patient’s condition.

Prompt first aid is the key to successful treatment

The effectiveness of treatment for any ailment largely depends on how quickly first aid was provided to the victim. Therefore, let’s get acquainted with the basic recommendations on what to do if you are poisoned by food.

Food poisoning is an acute illness from which neither adults nor children are immune. Mild forms of poisoning are accompanied by slight digestive upset and are tolerated without any problems.

Severe forms are characterized by serious symptoms - heat, uncontrollable vomiting, increasing weakness, dizziness. Providing assistance for food poisoning should not be delayed!

The most common pathogens of food poisoning are Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. They actively multiply in foods that have been in the heat for a long time (while their proper storage requires cold), or in food that has expired.

It is not difficult to pick up bacteria along with dishes prepared in a dubious street cafe in violation of all possible sanitary standards. Also, supermarket cooks often become “poisoners”, offering customers to try salads made from stale products.

Even if the symptoms of diarrhea are mild, medications should be used with extreme caution. If prescribed incorrectly, the outcome can be disastrous.

Siphon enema

If the consumption of poor-quality food occurred relatively recently, and the patient has all the first signs of food poisoning, except for vomiting, gastric lavage with a probe is used in a hospital setting. In the absence of diarrhea, a siphon enema can be used. The main goal of these procedures is to rid the body of the remnants of toxic substances as soon as possible.

The decision on how to treat food poisoning rests with your doctor. Therapy will depend on the severity of the patient’s condition and the type of poisoning.

The most commonly used groups of drugs are:

1. Painkillers (Spazgan, No-Shpa) - relieve acute pain and spasms.
2. Antipyretics (Paracetamol, Analgin Diphenhydramine) - are used at temperatures exceeding 39°C, and at lower temperatures in cases where patients cannot easily tolerate it.
3. Sorption preparations – various enterosorbents are most often used. They are prescribed in between doses of other medications (the difference should be at least 2 hours) and only after the patient’s high fever has subsided.
4. Drugs that stop vomiting and diarrhea are prescribed if the symptoms of food poisoning (vomiting and diarrhea) do not go away for too long or are long-lasting and debilitating for the patient.
5. Rehydrating drugs (Chlorazol, Oralit) - used to restore electrolytes and fight dehydration. In mild cases they are taken orally. Severe poisoning can be treated with parenteral rehydration. For these purposes, drugs such as Chlosol, Trisol, etc. can be used.
6. Antibiotics, antibacterial and antimicrobial agents are used extremely rarely. Treatment with them begins in cases where there is a suspicion of mixed poisoning, or when food poisoning in an adult and a child is accompanied by an intestinal infection.
7. Probiotics are drugs that must be present in the treatment of food poisoning in both children and adult patients, even after all the first symptoms have passed. They help restore intestinal microflora, reduce irritation of the intestinal mucosa and provide general support to the gastrointestinal tract.

Ambulance doctors will conduct a quick examination of the patient and begin to treat the poisoning. First aid consists of:

• IVs that will help get rid of dehydration;
• drugs to eliminate nausea, abdominal pain;
• improving the functionality of the heart and regulating blood pressure and respiratory rate.

After the patient's condition has stabilized, he is immediately taken to the hospital (to the infection department or to the intensive care unit). There he is provided with qualified medical care and further treatment is prescribed. Also, in parallel with therapy, an examination is carried out, which helps to determine the cause of the disease, make a diagnosis and select the correct treatment.

Medicines

For food poisoning, medications of the following pharmacological groups are used.

1. Preparations for replenishing fluid deficiency - Oralit 200, Citraglucosolan, Regidron, Trihydron, Trisol, Chlosol, Acesol.
2. Sorbents that neutralize toxins in the gastrointestinal tract - preparations of activated carbon and hydrolytic lignin, Smecta, Polyphepan, Polysorb MP, Enterosgel.
3. Medicines that reduce irritation of mucous membranes - bismuth preparations, Smecta.
4. Antidiarrheal drugs - Indomethacin, Octreotide, calcium gluconate.
5. Intestinal asepsis to suppress the proliferation of microorganisms, pathogens - Ersefuril, Enterofuril, Stopdiar, Intesti-bacteriophage.
6. Probiotics and prebiotics for restoring disturbed intestinal microflora - Bifiform, Probifor, Linex, Hilak Forte, Acylact, Bifidumbacterin Forte.
7. Antispasmodics that relieve severe spastic pain - No-shpa, Trimedat, Buscopan, Duspatalin, Meteospasmil.
8. Antibiotics - Ampicillin, Levomycetin, Norfloxacin, Metronidazole.
9. Enzyme preparations for restoring the secretory functions of the stomach and intestines - Creon, Mikrasim, Panzinorm, Ermital.

Paracetamol is prescribed as an antipyretic drug only in the following cases:

• with a fever above 39 °C;
• if in elderly patients with concomitant diseases the temperature rises above 38 °C;
• with individual poor tolerance to fever.

Vomiting is a protective reaction of the body aimed at removing toxins from it. Therefore, in case of food poisoning, antiemetics are used only if it is indomitable. According to the doctor's prescription, the drug is administered intravenously or intramuscularly. An example is the medicine Cerucal. It not only regulates the peristalsis of the stomach and intestines, but also blocks the effect of toxins on the vomiting center.

If you clearly understand what to drink to prevent poisoning, you will prevent complications. With correctly selected therapy, the following effects will be exerted on the body:

• prevention of dehydration, restoration of water-salt balance;
• normalization of intestinal microflora, improvement of digestibility and digestion of food;
• removal from the body of salts of heavy metals, pathogens and their metabolic products, poisons of a different nature;
• fight against vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn;
• elimination of spasms that cause pain in the abdominal cavity.

Pregnant women, elderly people, and young children need consultation with a specialist. Only a doctor can tell you for sure what helps get rid of poisoning as quickly as possible and without complications.

Directional drugs should be taken in case of poisoning to stop excessive vomiting. Medicines slow down motor skills and stabilize the condition.

All medications for food poisoning should be taken strictly according to the instructions. Make sure that the products have a valid expiration date, are appropriate for the patient’s age, and that there are no reasons for their contraindications.

Treatment of food poisoning at home allows the use of the following medications:

• Sorbents - bind toxins and remove them from the body. The dose should be taken no earlier than two hours after taking other medications. They are used with caution if an elderly person or a child under 3 years of age is sick. Not recommended at high temperatures. At home, the use of white coal, Enterosgel, Polysorb, Lactofiltrum, Smecta is allowed.
• Rehydration products - replenish the deficiency of moisture and electrolytes. In everyday life, oral rehydrants are used, which are diluted with water and taken in the form of solutions. The use of Regidron, Litrozol, Chlorazol, Oralit is allowed. In the hospital, in case of severe intoxication, intravenous infusions of stronger rehydrants are performed - Lactosol, Trisol, Acesoli.
• Antispasmodics are allowed only as prescribed by a doctor. They help get rid of painful urge to defecate and significant pain symptoms. The main drugs are No-shpa, Spazmalgon, Drotaverine, Spasgan.
• Antiemetics - allowed only for persistent vomiting. Use Motilium or Cerucal.
• Antidiarrheal drugs are also used in exceptional cases. These include Trimebutin, Loperamide.
• Antipyretics (at temperatures above 37.5) - paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Ibuklin.
• Preparations for restoring intestinal microflora - Mezim, Linex, Hilak forte, Bifidumbacterin.
• To support the liver, which is actively involved in eliminating toxins, you can take hepatoprotectors - Heptral, Essentiale Forte N.
• It wouldn’t hurt to strengthen the body by adding vitamin-mineral complexes (Alphabet, Vitrum and analogues): they speed up metabolic processes and promote rapid recovery. They should be taken no earlier than 3–4 days.

Antibiotics for food poisoning can only be prescribed by a doctor, provided that the poisoning was caused by microbes (for example, staphylococci). Otherwise, they have an unnecessary inhibitory effect on the intestinal microflora. Folk remedies for food poisoning are not recommended.

When you abuse medications, eat spoiled food, use household chemicals, or drink alcohol, intoxication occurs. For poisoning, medications are prescribed that absorb and expel poisons from the body.

When to see a doctor?

If first aid for food poisoning has been provided, but severe vomiting and diarrhea do not go away within the next two to three hours, you should call an ambulance. Treatment of food poisoning at home can have negative consequences in cases where the patient requires more serious qualified help than just taking a sorbent. In case of poisoning with poisonous mushrooms, you should call an ambulance immediately.

Liver cells

For example, the venom of the toadstool can destroy liver cells in a short time. Exotoxic botulism bacilli that enter the body with food, if first aid is not provided, not only cause poisoning, but also affect the human nervous system.

You should not hesitate to call an ambulance so that the person can receive qualified first aid if the symptoms of food poisoning intensify.

• body temperature increased to 39°C and above;
• the poisoned person complains of very strong pains or constant cramps in the abdomen;
• the stomach has become hard or very swollen;
• a skin rash appeared on the body;
• the main signs of food poisoning were supplemented by inflammation and pain in the joints;
• breathing problems have become noticeable, difficulty swallowing is observed;
• There is blood in the patient's stool or vomit.

The patient should consult a doctor in the following cases:

• if diarrhea does not stop after 3 days;

Dehydration of the body, which causes vomiting and diarrhea, can be prevented with the help of special saline solutions. They replenish fluid loss and restore acid-base balance. Most often, such saline solutions are produced in powders and diluted in water. To normalize the patient’s condition during food poisoning, it is necessary to take 10 ml of this solution per 1 kg of body after each act of defecation of loose stool.

If diarrhea is accompanied by vomiting, it is necessary to take another 10 ml/1 kg of the patient’s weight after each vomiting.

• painful symptoms did not disappear after two days;
• there is severe dehydration;
• if a pregnant girl is poisoned;
• if the patient is elderly, over 60 years old;
• in case of poisoning of children under three years of age;
• if the patient has any chronic diseases;
• in case of weakened protective functions of the body - especially during treatment of oncology, HIV or AIDS;
• if there are traces of blood or mucus in the discharge;
• If diarrhea doesn't stop after 3 days;
• with severe pain in the stomach;
• if the body temperature rises above 38.6 degrees;
• in case of neurological symptoms (for example, doubling of objects or blurred images, muscle weakness, unclear speech, difficulty swallowing, and tingling in the extremities);
• if there is a suspicion that the poisoning occurred due to mushrooms;
• in case of prolonged absence of urination (more than 6 hours) or in the case when the urine is very dark;
• with yellowing of the skin.

Decoctions of medicinal plants help well, they supply the body with useful substances and have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the digestive system. Traditional methods Treatments must be combined with other medications.

A person who has been poisoned by mushrooms should brew 2 tbsp in 0.5 liters of boiling water. l. licorice. Keep on low heat for 10 minutes, then leave for 15 minutes, strain, and cool. Drink half a glass three times a day.

A person who has been poisoned by expired food should mix chamomile, peppermint, St. John's wort, centauria and juniper berries in equal proportions, pour in 4 tbsp. l. mixture 1 liter of boiling water and cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Cool, strain, drink a glass three times a day.

If your stomach is swollen, tea made from chamomile and lemon balm decoctions taken in equal proportions will help. You should drink it hot, 3 glasses a day.

How to tell if food is contaminated

First of all, you need to pay attention to the color, smell and taste of food. Spoiled foods smell unpleasant and have a sour taste. In addition, their consistency may change. One of the signs of product unsuitability is gas bubbles, which is especially noticeable on spoiled liquid food.

It should be noted that you can also be poisoned by products with normal properties and expiration dates. Most often this happens when food is prepared by an infected person in conditions where sanitary standards are not met.

To avoid food poisoning, you should not eat spoiled foods or those of which you are not sure of the quality.

• It is prohibited to eat products that have expired or were stored or transported inappropriately;
• When purchasing dairy products, you should check the integrity of the packaging;
• Do not eat unfamiliar foods;
• thorough washing of vegetables, fruits, herbs;
• thorough washing of dishes and cutlery;
• maintaining personal hygiene (washing hands before eating and before preparing food);
• high-quality heat treatment of food (especially fish and meat);
• compliance with the rules for storing food in the refrigerator (separate storage of fresh and cooked meat products; prepared food should not be stored for more than 3 days);
• control of infection vectors (cockroaches, flies, mice).

Diet

The diet for food poisoning for adults is very limited. To prevent the development of dehydration, patients are initially recommended to drink plenty of fluids, consume compotes and dried fruit jelly. You need to drink up to three liters of fluid per day. It is allowed to take herbal decoctions with an anti-inflammatory effect - chamomile, linden, yarrow. Drinks can be sweetened a little with sugar.

On the second day, light chicken broths and soups, porridges without adding milk are introduced into the patient’s diet. You can eat low-fat boiled fish and chicken, baked fruits, crackers, and kefir. Over time, food becomes more dense, but you cannot suddenly return to your usual diet. For the week following food poisoning, adults are advised to avoid eating the following foods:

• fresh vegetables and fruits;
• fried, smoked, spicy dishes;
• dairy products;
• canned food;
• fresh bread and cakes;
• coffee;
• dishes with spices;
• alcohol.

Eating these products is possible after a persistent improvement in well-being, in the complete absence of weakness, stomach pain, and normalization of intestinal microflora. Otherwise, in an adult, this may cause a deterioration in the condition, or less often, a re-development of symptoms of food poisoning.

It is advisable to abstain from food on the first day: the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is disrupted, and the body simply will not receive nutrients from it. But forced hunger is also not necessary, especially if you are sick Small child. The decisive factor should be the presence or absence of appetite in the victim.

Days 2–3 – oatmeal or rice porridge with water, fruit jelly, wheat crackers or biscuits;

4th and subsequent days - you can add boiled lean meat, pre-chopped, boiled vegetables, fermented milk products, soft-boiled eggs, water soups to the diet.

Until complete recovery, the following are prohibited:

• alcohol;
• spicy and fatty foods;
• canned food;
• smoked meats;
• sweets;
• legumes;
• spices;
• sauces;
• snacks.

It is recommended to limit the consumption of whole milk and protein products. In case of food poisoning, it is better to consume fruits and vegetables boiled, baked and stewed. Honey, bananas, cumin seeds are useful - ingredients that relieve inflammation, relieve symptoms of intoxication, and supply the body with vitamins and microelements. In addition to water, the patient is given herbal infusions of rose hips, anti-inflammatory herbs, and weak tea with honey.

Restoring normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract lasts 2 weeks. Chronic gastrointestinal problems can extend the period by 7 days.

Basic food requirements:

1. Consistency of liquid, puree, porridge. The presence of pieces that can cause harm to the esophageal mucosa is unacceptable.
2. Eat small portions, dividing your meals into several stages.
3. Temperature level of dishes up to 40 0C.
4. You cannot eat frozen products, meat and fish dishes (not earlier than the fifth day).
5. Dietary meat products minced in a meat grinder are allowed.
6. Cereals are prohibited (the restriction will be the presence of cellulose, which is difficult to process by gastric juice).
7. Butter is not allowed in porridge.

The use of folk remedies is permitted in the absence of allergic reactions. It is necessary to carefully consider a home course of treatment based on medicinal herbs. It is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations to avoid exacerbations.

In case of food poisoning, a diet with a normal protein content and low fat and carbohydrates is recommended. It is necessary to exclude foods that can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa and cause flatulence. Therefore, in the acute phase of food poisoning, you should not drink milk, mineral water and sweet tea.

If diarrhea persists, the following are allowed:

• wheat crackers;
• low-fat soups with added cereals;
• lean boiled meat, poultry or fish;
• freshly prepared cottage cheese;
• steam omelette or soft-boiled eggs;
• rice, oatmeal or buckwheat porridge with water.

In the acute phase of food poisoning, it is necessary to exclude the following foods from the diet:

• flour, bakery, pasta products;
• fatty soups;
• sausages;
• canned and smoked products;
• hot, spicy dishes;
• fatty or salted fish;
• dairy products;
• scrambled eggs, hard-boiled eggs;
• millet, barley or pearl barley porridge;
• raw vegetables, fruits;
• berries, compotes;
• sweets, jam or honey;
• coffee, cocoa;
• carbonated drinks.

Recovery

Food poisoning affects not only the stomach, but the entire digestive system. After detoxification and restoration of the gastrointestinal tract, it is necessary to take care of the intestinal system, which has suffered no less.

To do this, you should use several methods:

• balanced diet;
• drug therapy.

After food poisoning, the phenomena of asthenia in the body often persist, manifested by increased fatigue, loss of the ability for prolonged mental or physical stress. The gastrointestinal tract has not been completely restored. A patient with residual symptoms of the disease should be under the supervision of a local physician.

Among the rehabilitation measures for food poisoning are:

• mode;
• pharmacotherapy;
• dietary food;
• physical therapy and physiotherapy.

The duration of the recovery period is determined by the severity of the food poisoning suffered and the patient’s functional reserves. Typically, rehabilitation lasts from three days to six weeks.

Need to spend more time outdoors. It is advisable to avoid mental or physical overload and devote sufficient time to sleep - at least 8 hours a day. It is recommended to continue taking probiotics and enzymes. The methods of physical therapy and physiotherapy used depend on the extent of damage to the gastrointestinal tract. They are prescribed by a rehabilitation doctor or physiotherapist.

To restore fluid reserves in the body, you need to drink more water. Be sure to boil the liquid to prevent the condition from getting worse.

For the normal functioning of the body, sodium, magnesium, potassium and calcium are needed, which can be obtained from special smoothie cocktails. They should be used only after receiving permission from a doctor: initial stages the condition may worsen. To replenish electrolytes, mix 2 bananas, 1 tsp. sea ​​salt, 2 cups strawberries and juice of half a lemon. Beat with a blender. You can add water to obtain a thinner consistency.

Natural orange and grapefruit juices will help. It is allowed to prepare compote from dried fruits.

You can also buy saline solutions at the pharmacy. It is recommended to first consult a doctor to select the appropriate dosage.

Food poisoning in a child - symptoms and treatment methods

The causes, symptoms of the disease, diagnosis, and treatment methods are the same in children and adults. However, there are features that are characteristic only of pediatric practice.

Children and infants are more susceptible to intoxication. The disease begins faster and progresses in a violent form. With food poisoning, a child almost always vomits. Fluid deficiency in the body increases rapidly, to which children are more sensitive, so they often require observation in a hospital.

The treatment of food poisoning in a child is based on the principles of replenishing fluid deficiency, detoxification, and restoring impaired functions of the stomach and intestines.

The peculiarity of treating children is that some drugs can only be used from a certain age.

1. To replenish the lack of fluid, only Hydrovit or Hydrovit Forte are used. These drugs are available with a prescription.
2. Taking Polyphepan, Enterodez, Enterol is possible only from the age of one, Enterofuril, activated carbon preparations - from three years, Ersefuril - from six, Stopdiar - from seven.
3. Probiotics and prebiotics - Bifiliz, Florin Forte, Hilak Forte, are approved for use in children from the first year of life. Probifor can be used from five years of age, Bifiform - from two years.
4. The antispasmodic Trimedat can be used from three years of age, No-shpa, Buscopan - from six, Meteospasmil - from fourteen.
5. Enzyme preparations such as Micrasim, Creon, Ermital are allowed from the first year of life. Mezim, Panzinorm, Festal are used from three years.

In pediatric practice, it is more often necessary to prescribe antibacterial therapy and antipyretics. Even a slight increase in temperature due to food poisoning can cause convulsions in children. Therefore, short-term use of antipyretic medications is possible.

Children are prescribed a standard diet prescribed for food poisoning. It is necessary to exclude dairy, spicy, smoked, fried foods, muffins, and sweets. During an acute period of food poisoning, a child can eat porridge cooked in water (rice, buckwheat, oatmeal), low-fat soups, omelettes, wheat crackers, lean meat, and fish. This list gradually expands as the child recovers.

In children, poisoning is more severe; harmful substances quickly spread throughout the body. What is a child allowed to drink when intoxicated? Medicines are prescribed to children by a doctor. It is not allowed to select medications on your own; serious complications may develop.

Some drugs for adults are available in pediatric form and are acceptable for use in children. However, you need to carefully calculate the dosage. When a child is poisoned, dehydration develops faster than in an adult, so it is necessary to give the baby more fluid.

Small children are allowed to drink still water, dried fruit compotes, berry fruit drinks; if necessary, medications that restore electrolyte balance (Regidron) are used.

Food poisoning in a child is an acute infectious-toxic lesion that occurs as a result of eating poor-quality foods that contain pathogens and their toxins, plant or other poisons. Food poisoning in a child is manifested by diarrhea, vomiting, fever, intoxication, and dehydration.

Diagnosis of food poisoning in children involves clarifying the epidemiological history; identification of pathogen or toxin in blood, feces, vomit, food samples. Treatment of food poisoning in children requires immediate gastric lavage or a cleansing enema, taking enterosorbents, and rehydration.

Food poisoning in a child is a food poisoning or intoxication associated with the consumption of contaminated food, water or toxic (plant, chemical, medicinal) substances.

Food poisoning in children occupies a leading place among infectious pathologies and toxicology of childhood and represents a serious problem in practical pediatrics.

Food poisoning in children is much more severe than in adults, which is explained by the characteristics of the child’s body: low acidity gastric juice, incomplete formation of intestinal microflora, faster absorption of poison and its distribution throughout the body, relatively low detoxification ability of the liver and filtration function of the kidneys, etc. Often the same products, which do not cause any signs of poisoning in an adult, cause food poisoning The child has.

A child may experience the following types of food poisoning:

1. Infectious food poisoning caused by microbes and their toxins (food poisoning and food toxicosis - bacteriotoxicosis, botulism).
2. Non-infectious food poisoning caused by toxic products of plant and animal origin, toxic impurities.

The clinical course of food poisoning in a child is divided into 3 stages:

• Latent (asymptomatic) - lasts from the moment of ingestion of the toxin/poison until the first symptoms of food poisoning appear in the child. The duration of the latent period depends on age and individual characteristics child, the amount of toxic substances entering the body with food, and the rate of its absorption. The latent stage of food poisoning is the most favorable “window” for treating a child, when the poison has not yet entered the bloodstream and has not exerted its toxic effect. First aid in this case is gastric lavage and taking enterosorbents.
• Toxigenic – lasts from the appearance of the first signs of poisoning until the elimination of bacteria and poison from the body. The toxicogenic period is manifested by extensive symptoms of food poisoning in a child, characteristic of a given toxic infection or poison. At this stage, it is necessary to identify bacteria and poison, their removal (gastric lavage, cleansing enema, forced diuresis), detoxification, etc.
• Stage of convalescence– restoration of impaired functions (digestive, excretory, immune, etc.).

Infectious food poisoning in a child (food toxicoinfections) can be caused by staphylococcus, proteus, klebsiella, clostridia, citrobacter, enterotoxigenic strains of Escherichia coli, etc.

These pathogens enter the body exclusively with food, in which they first multiply and produce toxins. Food contamination and the accumulation of toxins are facilitated by non-compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards during the storage, preparation and sale of food.

In this case, the products may look like poor quality (unpleasant smell, taste, changed color, consistency) or have normal organoleptic qualities.

Microbial sources that contaminate food can be people suffering from intestinal infections, purulent diseases (tonsillitis, furunculosis, streptoderma, panaritium, mastitis, etc.), as well as animals that pollute water, soil, plants and other environmental objects with their feces.

Food poisoning in a child can be caused by consuming unboiled water, contaminated milk and dairy products, eggs, creamy confectionery, fish and seafood, sausages, meat (beef, pork, chicken, etc.), homemade canned food, etc.

Food poisoning in children can occur as sporadic, familial cases or mass outbreaks. They are characterized by an increase in incidence in the summer-autumn period, when there are favorable conditions for the proliferation of microbial pathogens and the accumulation of toxins.

Non-infectious food poisoning is usually associated with accidental consumption by a child poisonous berries(nightshade, wolfberry, black elderberry, raven's eye, etc.), plants (hemlock, henbane, poisonous weed, datura, etc.

), mushrooms (pale toadstool, fly agarics, false chanterelles or honey mushrooms).

The clinical picture of food poisoning in a child with various toxic infections is very similar. Typically the latent stage lasts 2-6 hours; sometimes shortened to 30 minutes. or extends to 24 hours. Food poisoning in a child is manifested by signs of gastroenteritis, general infectious symptoms, intoxication, and dehydration.

The disease begins acutely, with nausea, repeated vomiting of eaten food, abdominal pain (mainly in the stomach area), watery diarrhea with impurities of greenery, mucus, and streaks of blood. The frequency of stool reaches 5-10 times a day.

Almost simultaneously with the symptoms of gastroenteritis, body temperature rises to 38-39°C. Intoxication syndrome is rapidly growing, characterized by lethargy, refusal to eat, headache and muscle pain.

Loss of fluid through vomiting and stool leads to dehydration: facial features become sharper, the skin becomes pale and dry to the touch.

A child with food poisoning may experience convulsions, oligo-, anuria, hemodynamic disorders, and acidosis.

The course of food poisoning is short; in most cases, symptoms regress within 2–3 days, although weakness and abdominal pain may persist longer.

Severe forms of food poisoning can be observed in young children, weakened individuals with concomitant background (prematurity, malnutrition, dysbacteriosis, etc.).

In case of food poisoning from poisonous plants, a child’s central nervous system is often affected, which can manifest itself as lethargy, euphoria, hallucinations, visual impairment, speech disorders, convulsions, and coma.

With a toxic effect on the cardiovascular system, tachycardia or bradycardia, arrhythmia, and arterial hypotension occur.

Most plants primarily affect the gastrointestinal tract, which makes food poisoning in a child less dangerous.

Food poisoning of a child by mushrooms always occurs due to the fault of adults who allow the consumption of unknown or dubious “gifts of the forest.”

Poisoning with toadstool is accompanied by uncontrollable vomiting, intestinal colic, cholera-like diarrhea mixed with blood, convulsions, and respiratory distress.

How do you usually begin to treat poisoning at home?

Those who trust pharmacology more, in case of food poisoning, drink sorbents Smecta, Enterosgel, and dilute Rehydron to reduce dehydration processes. But this is not much better than activated carbon and water, plain clean water.

A more complex and expensive medicine does not guarantee greater effectiveness. I gave smecta on the recommendation of the pediatrician to my child, he continued to vilify as he vilified. But after coal and a slight refusal of food, everything quickly went smoothly. Yes, children themselves refuse food in this state.

And many mothers immediately begin to panic: “My child is starving, I need to do something urgently, how will he, poor child, fight toxins if he misses a full three-course meal!” And they feed the dodging child with all sorts of tricks and jokes, thereby prolonging his torment.

Food poisoning during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnant women have an increased susceptibility to toxic infections due to the decreased immunity characteristic of this period. There is a risk of more severe food poisoning and negative influence for the fruit. If pregnancy is accompanied by toxicosis, this further aggravates the situation.

Enterotoxins in their chemical structure are proteins or polypeptide chains with significant molecular weight. They cannot cross the placental barrier and directly affect the fetus. But there is a possibility of their influence through the mother’s body. Dehydration and impaired microcirculation that occur with food poisoning during pregnancy negatively affect the fetus.

It is possible to breastfeed a child if the mother is mildly intoxicated. However, a woman must carefully observe the rules of personal hygiene. Restrictions on breastfeeding arise only in more severe toxic infections, when hospital treatment of the victim is required.

In case of food poisoning in pregnant or nursing mothers, there are restrictions on the drugs used for treatment.

1. Among the enterosorbents allowed for use are Polysorb MP, Enterosgel (gel or regular paste), Smecta, Neosmectin, Polyphepan, Filtrum STI. The use of Enterosgel in the form of a sweet paste and Whitesorb is contraindicated.
2. Pregnant women should not use Ersefuril, but nursing women may need short courses of treatment with this drug.
3. Antispasmodics and enzyme agents are used only as prescribed by a doctor.

Among the medications used to replenish fluid deficiency, there are no drugs prohibited for use.

What can pregnant women eat after food poisoning? On the one hand, it is necessary to follow a diet to restore the functions of the stomach and intestines, and on the other, a varied diet is required for the full development of the fetus. A reasonable combination of permitted products helps you choose the right diet:

• low-fat meat or fish broths;
• boiled mashed porridge;
• vegetables and herbs in the form of souffles, purees, puddings;
• lean meats or fish;
• eggs;
• fermented milk products, cottage cheese;
• mashed berries, baked apples, dried fruit puree;
• honey, jam, preserves, marmalade;
• dried white bread, crackers;
• savory cookies, biscuits;
• natural butter;
• fruit drinks, jelly, pureed compotes;
• rosehip decoction, diluted fruit juices;
• weak tea with lemon, coffee with milk.

For a pregnant woman, the rich content of liquids, vitamins and microelements in a gentle diet is of particular importance.

Consequences

If you do not take up the treatment of poisoning in time and do not complete it, then food intoxication can provoke a number of pathological changes in the body.

They are as follows:

• microbial imbalance in the intestines;
• Crohn's disease;
• ulcerative colitis;
• inflammation of the gastric mucosa;
• allergic food intolerance;
• inflammatory process in the joints;
• improper metabolism;
• psycho-emotional instability.

The most serious complications of severe disease are pseudomembranous colitis, sepsis, and infectious-toxic shock. Food poisoning is also dangerous due to the possibility of decompensation of the condition of elderly patients who have concomitant pathologies. Against this background, they may experience heart attacks or strokes.

In most cases, with timely medical care, the prognosis is favorable. The disease ends with complete recovery of the patient.

After food poisoning, residual effects may persist in the form of stomach pain and periodic bowel movements. Asthenic syndrome, which accompanies the recovery period of all infectious diseases, is manifested by weakness, fatigue, and headaches.

Prevention during intoxication

Food poisoning is the most common of all intoxications. They can be avoided if you follow preventive measures.

1. Careful processing of fruits, vegetables, meat and fish.
2. Maintaining hygiene rules.
3. Compliance with storage conditions and food preparation rules.
4. Do not overeat in public places.
5. Proper heat treatment of products.

What to drink if you are poisoned? The question often arises in people during intoxication. The list of approved medications is small, but when used correctly they help quickly restore the functioning of internal organs. Compliance with preventive measures will help avoid serious poisoning.

To prevent mass cases of food poisoning, special measures are being taken under the control of government services. They include supervision of organizations responsible for water supply, water treatment, food preparation and storage, as well as catering establishments.

To protect yourself from food poisoning you need to:

• compliance with personal hygiene rules;
• drinking only boiled or disinfected water;
• thorough processing of raw vegetables and fruits before eating;
• compliance with the shelf life of food products, especially perishable ones.

To avoid food poisoning, it is important to follow preventive measures. Especially in summer and in regions with hot climates.

To summarize, let us recall the main points of the article. Food poisoning is a disease caused by opportunistic bacteria. When entering the body, they are capable of active reproduction and release of toxins. The main signs of food poisoning are symptoms of damage to the stomach, intestines, intoxication, and dehydration.

The severity of the disease is determined by the severity of these manifestations. The connection between the onset of symptoms and the consumption of poor quality food helps in diagnosis. First of all, in case of food poisoning, it is necessary to cleanse the stomach. Therapy for mild forms of the disease does not require hospitalization, so treatment at home is allowed.

When to see a doctor if you have food poisoning

Regular poisoning prevention will help you protect yourself and your loved ones from this disease. Below are recommendations that should be followed at all times:

• When purchasing or using food products, check the production date., inspect the packaging for integrity. It is advisable to smell meat and fish.
• Purchase food products only from official and licensed retail outlets. Forget about spontaneous markets forever.
• Wash your hands, utensils and food thoroughly.
• Store food properly. Perishable foods should be stored in the refrigerator.
• Do not refreeze meat or fish. This can lead to the proliferation of putrefactive bacteria in it.
• Don't buy ready-made meals. It is best not to be lazy and cook your own food. This is the only way you will know what, how and under what conditions it was made.

Food poisoning in adults can occur for a variety of reasons. Its treatment should be taken seriously. When the first symptoms of illness appear, call an ambulance. While the doctors are traveling, rinse the patient’s intestines and stomach, give him water and sorbents to drink. Mild poisoning can be treated at home after a doctor prescribes diet and medication. You should not self-medicate. Take care of your health.

Prevention of food poisoning consists of following basic hygiene rules, cooking temperatures, and other simple tips.

1. Eat only fresh foods. It is easy to distinguish spoiled food: either the marking on the packaging or its swelling indicates that it has passed its expiration date (this applies to both cans and tetrapacks). After the expiration date, meat and fish become bluish, too viscous and not elastic, and emit an unpleasant odor. Vegetables and fruits become moldy. For example, you should not eat a tomato by cutting off the rotten side. Even if most of the product has retained its presentation and does not look damaged, fungal spores could have already entered the pulp and could cause poisoning.
2. Food places. It is necessary to carefully select public catering outlets.
3. Maintain hygiene of hands, cutlery, and dishes. Hands must be washed after visiting the street, as well as before eating, even if the person has not previously had contact with animals or left the house. Cutlery should always be clean; dishes should not be left in the sink for too long - this leads to the development of bacteria. You should change your dishwashing sponges regularly. In a short period of time, a large number of microorganisms also accumulate in them.
4. Be sure to wash food. It is important to wash vegetables and fruits, eggs, and rinse the lids of cans. If possible, heat-treat food before eating.
5. Use separate cutting boards. This is a must for raw foods, cheeses and vegetables. Food that is consumed without additional heat treatment should not come into contact with food through the board. raw meat and fish.

Additional precautions include checking the taste and smell of the food. A sour smell, bitter or sour taste, as well as a tingling sensation on the tongue indicate spoilage of the product.

Different people have different gastrointestinal sensitivity. Some can safely eat spicy foods, mix milk with fish products and not feel unwell. Others may feel unwell even from excessive consumption of fermented products (for example, kvass). Therefore, prevention of poisoning also lies in a competent combination of products. It is necessary to take into account the characteristics of your own body and avoid those foods that previously led to diarrhea or other gastrointestinal disorders.

Many people know what poisoning is and how dangerous it can be. It is necessary to remember which remedy is effective in case of poisoning and can quickly remove toxins from the body.

What is poisoning called?

Toxins and poisons that enter the human body cause disruption of normal functioning. If the source is not disposed of in a timely manner, it will continue its destructive effect and ultimately lead to the death of a person.

Doctors have a classification of types of poisoning, based on the type of toxic agent.

The cause of intoxication of the body may be:

• poor quality food;
• pesticide;
• carbon monoxide;
• acids and alkalis;
• alcohol;

Poisons and toxins can enter the human body in various ways: orally (through the mouth), through breathing, through the skin, by injection.

Frequent sources of intoxication are alcohol, poisonous mushrooms, low-quality canned food, medicines, carbon monoxide during a fire or smoke in the room.

Toxic substances affect a person differently, based on this, four conditions are distinguished:

1. acute intoxication, manifested by a sharp manifestation of symptoms of poisoning;
2. subacute form of poisoning - manifested by signs indicating repeated exposure to poisons internal organs or human skin;
3. hyperacute – affects the central nervous system, can be expressed by convulsions, loss of coordination, and often causes death;
4. chronic - symptoms characterize long-term exposure to toxins on a person, characteristic signs appear very clearly.

In normal home conditions, the most common are food poisoning, characterized by impaired functioning of the digestive system.

Food poisoning: characteristics and first aid

You can be poisoned by many foods: undercooked meat, poorly washed vegetables, fruits, low-quality canned food, stale food.

If stored for a long time in the refrigerator or at room temperature, many foods may become inedible.

Poisoning is caused by bacteria and pathogenic microorganisms - foodborne pathogens. They can get on products before purchase or develop in a favorable environment: temperature, high humidity.

Bacteria can get onto products from packaging, dirty hands of the seller, and can live and develop in the body of animals, birds or fish that are planned to be eaten. If there is insufficient heat treatment, they “wake up” and begin their destructive effect in the human body.

Signs of food poisoning

In case of poisoning with low-quality food, the very first symptoms will be:

• sharp stomach pain or abdominal cramps;
• nausea;
• vomit;
• diarrhea.

Sometimes the body copes with the problem on its own, removes toxins, so these symptoms go away quickly and digestive function is restored.

If the above phenomena do not go away within two days or the person’s condition worsens hourly, the temperature rises, dizziness, dry mouth appear, the color and volume of urine changes (it becomes dark yellow, and the urge becomes rare) - you should urgently consult a doctor .

These symptoms indicate that the body is beginning to become dehydrated, which is often fatal.

First aid for food poisoning

There are cases when you need to call an ambulance immediately:

1. if a child, an elderly person, a pregnant woman has been poisoned;
2. If an adult has difficulty breathing and speaking, cannot swallow and complains of blurred vision. Such symptoms may indicate botulism, a dangerous form of the disease.

Important! Don't try to stop the diarrhea - it will help remove toxins from the body faster, but if the diarrhea does not stop for several days, consult a doctor. Fluid leaves the body with feces.

At the first suspicion of food poisoning or an intestinal infectious disease (the stomach hurts sharply, the person feels faint, or vomiting or diarrhea begins), it is important to remove toxic substances from the body as quickly as possible.

Enterosorbent preparations are suitable for this:

• organic - made on the basis of natural digestive fibers: Multisorb, Algisorb, Mycoton, Zosterin and others;
• carbon - derivatives of the well-known sorbent - activated carbon. These are Karbovit, Karbolong, Antralen. They have the ability, like a sponge, to collect toxins and heavy metal salts. The main use is for food and chemical poisoning, intestinal infections, bloating;
• silicon - act selectively but effectively, however, they cannot reliably and for a long time retain toxins, therefore they are less effective than carbon sorbents. Silicon-containing drugs include popular drugs used by many for diarrhea: Smecta, Polysorb, Enterosgel and the like.

There are also combination drugs that combine active substances that neutralize toxins and promote them rapid elimination from the body.

Form of release of sorbents: powders for dilution with water, tablets, gel. Thus, Enterosgel is available in the form of a gel paste, has a pleasant taste and can be used to alleviate the child’s condition. They begin to take sorbents as soon as the first signs of poisoning are noticed, at least three times a day until the functions of the digestive system are completely restored.

Drugs that normalize the body's condition

The most popular, long-known and inexpensive sorbent is activated carbon. It is effective against food poisoning, alcohol intoxication, poisoning with toxic substances, and absorbs poisons, gases, and heavy metal salts.

Side effects include possible constipation, loss of valuable trace elements and minerals. Coal should not be used for stomach or intestinal ulcers, or exacerbation of hemorrhoids.

Other popular and effective sorbent drugs include well-known remedies for poisoning:

1. Enterosgel is a silicon drug that has virtually no contraindications: it can be given to small children and pregnant women. It quickly removes toxins from the body, helps with toxicosis of pregnant women, alcohol intoxication, while retaining beneficial microelements in the body.
2. Ultrasorb is a combined enterosorbent recommended for chronic or acute intoxication with radioactive substances. Often used for people working in hazardous industries.
3. Polysorb is a combined drug that quickly and effectively removes toxins, recommended for various types of poisoning - alcohol intoxication, food and drug poisoning.
4. Smecta is used as an antidiarrheal drug that has an adsorbing effect. Effective for food poisoning, intestinal infections, and alcohol intoxication. Quickly restores the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines.

Preparations for restoring the body

In case of poisoning, it is important not only to quickly eliminate the negative effects of toxins on the body, but also to restore the water-salt balance in the body. For vomiting and diarrhea, you can take Omeprazole. Simple boiled water or mineral water without gas, electrolyte solutions - rehydrants (Regidron) will help replenish the amount of fluid in the body.

Poisoning is often accompanied by severe pain and cramps in the stomach and intestines.

Antispasmodic tablets will help with pain:

• No-shpa;
• Papaverine;
• Platyfillin.

To avoid stomach damage when using anti-inflammatory drugs, it is useful to take Omeprazole. It helps to quickly restore the gastric mucosa and acidity. Food poisoning can cause acute or chronic gastritis, accompanied by heartburn and pain. Omeprazole is used to treat gastritis, so it is often prescribed during the rehabilitation period after poisoning.

It is undesirable to stop diarrhea in a poisoned person, but if it is prolonged, you can take antidiarrheals and probiotics, which will accelerate the restoration of intestinal microflora and normalize digestion.

Anti-vomiting medications are also only useful when vomiting is at risk of dehydration. Cerucal, Pancreatin, Omeprazole, Domrid will help to tame vomiting. Pancreatin is also taken for alcohol intoxication. However, it is better to take them only on the recommendation of a doctor.

When eliminating the consequences of poisoning, taking enzymes will help quickly restore the digestive process. Well-known enzymes are Mezim, Festal, Pancreatin.

It is important to stick to your diet for several days after poisoning, but drink as much water as possible.

Sorbent medications, drugs Omeprazole, Pancreatin, No-spa and similar ones in action should be in every home medicine cabinet: in case of food poisoning, they will help to quickly remove toxins from the body and restore impaired functions of the digestive system.

However, if the symptoms do not disappear within two days, or the patient’s condition worsens quickly, you should not wait two days: you should urgently consult a doctor who will prescribe treatment.

Acute food poisoning requires the earliest possible start of treatment, since this determines how much of the toxin will have time to be absorbed into the blood and begin its destructive effect.

At the very first symptoms of food poisoning, you can help yourself, but still sensibly assess your condition - many food poisonings are life-threatening. Therefore, it is best to seek help from health workers, especially with young children.

General principles of treatment of food poisoning and differences from the treatment of intestinal infections

Mild food poisoning in general, especially those that often occur in everyday life, are not classified as serious illnesses. Even without treatment, such conditions resolve on their own within 1-3 days. Main areas of treatment:

• elimination of intoxication and rapid removal of toxins from the body;
• prevention);
• restoration of intestinal biocenosis;
• restoration of gastrointestinal tract activity through a gentle diet.

The fundamental difference in the treatment of intestinal infections is the often prescribed etiotropic treatment to destroy the causative agent of the disease that is actively reproducing in the body (antibiotics or antiviral drugs). In addition, treatment of intestinal infections (botulism, rotavirus, enterovirus, etc.) is a long process, often occurring only in a hospital setting.

First aid for food poisoning

The earliest treatment for food poisoning, which actually plays the role of first aid to the victim, is extremely important - because the sooner the fight against the incoming toxic substance begins, the sooner the body will cope with intoxication.

• Stomach cleansing

As a rule, the body itself gives a signal about the need to empty the stomach when a poor-quality product gets there. But natural vomiting is not enough to flush out the stomach as much as possible.

After the first attack of vomiting, you need to drink about half a liter of warm water, possibly salted, with the addition of potassium permanganate or soda (a weak solution!). With the next attack of vomiting, the bulk of the food mass will be released, but rinsing, if possible, should be carried out before clean water is thrown out of the stomach.

Of course, you should not forcefully provoke vomiting if there is no urge to do so - probably, the spoiled product has already left the stomach and is in the intestines.

• Replacement of lost fluid

Diarrhea and vomiting are protective reactions of the body, but in addition to removing toxins, fluid is removed and lost, the volume of which must be replenished. At home, after each bowel movement or attack of vomiting, you need to take about 200 grams of liquid, but only in small sips: still mineral water, boiled water, glucose-saline solution (for 1 liter of boiled water, 3 tablespoons of sugar and 1 tsp. salt).

• Natural colon cleansing

The main mistake with diarrhea associated with food poisoning is trying to stop it by taking imodium and similar drugs. Diarrhea is the fastest and most massive removal of toxins from the body. Retention of feces in the intestines is equivalent to a blockage in the sewer, because the processes of rotting and absorption of toxic products will continue intensively. The question of prescribing antidiarrheal drugs is decided only by a doctor.

• Observance of hunger

Previously, at the peak of symptoms, it was recommended to abstain from eating food, especially since there is always no appetite during poisoning. The gastrointestinal tract does not function fully, so it is necessary to withstand therapeutic fasting during the first day of the disease. However, with Nowadays, starvation is not used in treatment, since the intestines and stomach must restore their epithelium, and without food this is impossible. Of course, if you don’t want to eat, then they don’t force feed you. But it is not recommended to specifically observe hunger, especially for children.

When is hospitalization necessary?

In most cases, symptoms of food poisoning can be treated at home.
Hospitalization is indicated for the following types of food poisoning:

• almost any food poisoning in a child under 3 years of age. Treatment of food poisoning in a young child is carried out only under supervision medical personnel, since vomiting and diarrhea quickly lead the body to a state of dehydration, which is very dangerous in childhood. In addition, it is difficult to force a small child to drink a large amount of liquid; in a hospital setting, intravenous administration of rehydration solutions is possible;
• food poisoning in pregnant and elderly patients;
• poisoning by mushrooms, poisonous plants, inedible liquids and compounds;
• severe food poisoning accompanied by:
  • diarrhea more than 10 times a day;
  • diarrhea mixed with blood;
  • high temperature that persists during the second day of the disease;
  • uncontrollable vomiting;
  • severe increasing weakness;
• poisoning with increasing symptoms on days 2-3 of the disease.

Drug treatment of poisoning

In case of mild food poisoning, no specific treatment may be needed at all, the main thing is to drink more and follow a gentle diet. Let us remind you that only a doctor can adequately assess a person’s condition and determine the need and scope of treatment.

Rehydration therapy (rehydrants)	When food poisoning is diagnosed, treatment with drugs from the group of rehydrants is the main one, since it leads to the restoration of electrolyte and water deficiency in the body. Therapy of this type can be oral and, in severe cases or when restoring fluid volume in young children, parenteral. Oral rehydration with special solutions can be carried out at home, since their use is simple and straightforward; moreover, oral rehydrants should always be in a traveler’s first aid kit.
	Oral rehydration preparations Oralit Regidron Chlorazole Litrozole	Preparations for parenteral rehydration Trisol Quartasol Acesol Hlosol Lactosol
Sorption therapy (enterosorbents)	Action	Main drugs:
	Drugs from this group help to quickly remove toxins through adsorption. Their use is justified during the period of absence of vomiting, as well as in the two-hour interval between taking other medications. Sorption therapy is not carried out at high temperatures, and is prescribed with caution to young children and elderly patients.	black and white coal, attapulgite, smecta, enterosgel, polyphepan, sorbogel,
Analgesic therapy (antispasmodics)	These medications are indicated for significant pain symptoms accompanied by diarrhea and painful urge to defecate.	nosh-pa, drotaverine, spasmalgon, rescue gun
Antibacterial and antimicrobial therapy (antibiotics and antimicrobials)	These drugs are very rarely prescribed for food poisoning and are indicated for mixed poisoning. Unreasonable prescription of antibiotics and combined antimicrobial drugs aggravates the picture of dysbiosis that develops as a result of the disease.	furazolidone, nifuroxazide, intetrix, ersefuril, phthalazole
Antiemetic and antidiarrheal therapy	Since both vomiting and diarrhea are protective reactions of the body, these, in this case, normal reactions of the body should not be forced. In extreme cases, when vomiting and diarrhea become indomitable, and the bulk of the toxin has already been released through vomit and feces, the following may be prescribed:	antiemetics - cerucal, motiluim; antidiarrheals - trimebutine (see)
Antipyretic therapy (NSAIDs)	As a rule, in case of food poisoning, hyperthermia does not reach high numbers, but people who cannot tolerate elevated temperatures, as well as children, may be prescribed:	ibuclin (paracetamol + ibuprofen).
Microflora restoration therapy (pro- and eubiotics)	After food poisoning, the normal intestinal biocenosis is almost always disrupted. Therefore, during the recovery period, medications containing beneficial bacteria or their components are prescribed:	bifidumbacterin, linex; enterogermina; bionorm; bioflora; bactisubtil (see)

Other Treatments for Food Poisoning

In case of severe poisoning, as well as in the absence of vomiting or to induce it in a hospital setting, gastric lavage is performed.

Using a probe, which is inserted into the oral cavity and carefully advanced into the stomach cavity, water is introduced and removed until the withdrawn liquid becomes clear. On average, an adult has to use about 10 liters of water to effectively lavage the stomach.

In the absence of diarrhea, in case of dangerous and severe poisoning, a siphon enema is performed in the hospital.

Using a special hose and funnel, a liquid, the composition of which is determined by the doctor (can be water with potassium permanganate, sodium chlorine, etc.), is carefully introduced into the intestines through the anus, then the funnel quickly lowers down and the water comes out of the intestines. Rinsing is carried out to clean water, the volume of liquid consumed is also about 10 liters.

Traditional methods of treating food poisoning

Treatment of food poisoning with folk remedies is possible if it is mild and after prior consultation with a doctor.

• Cinnamon infusion

Cinnamon is considered a natural antispasmodic, as well as a natural sorbent. Pour half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon into a glass of boiling water and stir. The infusion is kept for 15 minutes and filtered. Take warm, throughout the day. The liquid is drunk in small sips, the daily volume is 1.5 liters.

• Marshmallow roots, flowers and leaves

A good remedy that shortens the recovery time for food poisoning. The roots should be crushed and pour 1 teaspoon with 0.5 cup of boiling water, let it brew for 30 minutes, strain the infusion, add honey to taste, you can drink 1 tbsp. spoon 4 r/day. Marshmallow flowers and leaves - 2 tbsp. spoons pour 2 tbsp. boiling water, leave for 4 hours, drink as tea 3 times a day.

• Dill infusion with honey

Dill helps speed up the elimination of toxins and eases vomiting without stopping it. Honey retains potassium, which is also lost through vomiting and diarrhea. One teaspoon of dill seeds is poured into one and a half cups of boiling water and left for a couple of minutes. Then the infusion must be boiled for 2 minutes, strained and dissolved in the resulting volume of a teaspoon of honey.
Take during the day, the daily volume is 1 liter.

• Decoction of wormwood and yarrow

Wormwood and yarrow help cleanse the body of toxic substances. Mix one teaspoon of dry plants with 500 ml of boiling water and leave for 15 minutes. The resulting infusion, after filtering, is taken during the day, divided into 5 equal parts.

• Lemon juice

Squeeze the juice of 3 lemons, dilute with water and add sugar to taste. Drink the resulting juice in one gulp, it is believed that lemon juice stops the proliferation of bacteria. This method is contraindicated for persons with and other gastrointestinal diseases, when acidic foods are contraindicated.

Nutrition during recovery

For several days after poisoning, you should not eat heavy or fatty foods; you should limit milk and any dairy products. Spicy foods and alcohol are also prohibited.

You should eat in small portions. Meat products should be prepared exclusively in a dietary manner and in minced form. Good side dishes include boiled potatoes and rice.

Sufficient drinking regime during the recovery period is also important, since the body needs to replenish the lost volume. You can drink weak green tea, chamomile tea, slightly sweetened and warm.

Prevention of food poisoning

• Sufficient thermal processing of food
• Compliance with temperature conditions for food storage, compliance with expiration dates
• Eating only proven and edible mushrooms and plants
• Pre-boiling homemade milk, water from non-centralized sources
• Compliance with hygiene rules when preparing food (thorough washing of dishes, as well as fruits and vegetables), maintaining personal hygiene

When purchasing dairy products, you must check the integrity of the packaging

Don't eat unfamiliar foods

Meat and fish must be subjected to high-quality heat treatment

It is necessary to combat flies, cockroaches, mice - carriers of infections

Keep raw and prepared meat products separate in the refrigerator

Do not eat prepared foods that have been stored for more than 3 days (even in the refrigerator)

Intoxication is a condition caused by the entry of pathogenic microorganisms or non-microbial poisons into the body. You should know what to drink if you are poisoned. If we are talking about chemicals or poisons, you should consult a doctor.

Reasons causing the disorder:

• pathogens in food;
• medications;
• alcohol;
• toxic, carbon monoxides;
• nitrates, paints, pesticides.

The remedy for poisoning and its administration depends on the type of poison. If the problem is gases or chemicals, you need to urgently contact a specialist. Before the ambulance arrives, it is recommended that the poison victim be given a glass of milk or warm water with dissolved starch to drink. If the condition is caused by alcohol, you need to induce vomiting and perform gastric lavage.

Review of popular anti-poisoning remedies

Symptoms:

1. Nausea.
2. Diarrhea.
3. Vomit.
4. Fever.
5. Increased salivation.
6. Headache.
7. Bloating.
8. Weakness.

Possible signs: hallucinations, fainting, fever, loss of coordination and functioning of the nervous system, decreased blood pressure, cold sweat.

Loose stools have a pungent odor and there are pieces of undigested food. Vomiting is repeated frequently, the contents contain mucus and gastric juice.

It is necessary to distinguish intoxication from intestinal infection. The latter enters the body by airborne droplets or through touch.

Symptoms of poisoning occur quickly, and an intestinal infection has an incubation period of up to a month; its main symptoms are high fever, dehydration, and diarrhea.

It's pointless to accept folk remedies for intestinal infections and food poisoning. If you suspect an infection, contact your doctor.

The main “helpers” for intoxication of the body are antiemetic, antipyretic medications and sorbents for removing pathogenic substances.

Antiemetics

Vomiting is the body’s protective reaction to intoxication. To cleanse the intestines of toxins, you need to drink a glass of plain water or with the addition of potassium permanganate and soda. The patient should drink at least half a liter of liquid, and then induce vomiting by pressing on the root of the tongue with two fingers. The procedure must be repeated until the discharge becomes transparent.

There are cases when the process needs to be stopped. The use of antiemetic drugs in case of poisoning is indicated for pregnant women, infants and children under three years of age, and for unconscious people. The consequence is severe dehydration.

Medicines: Cerucal, Motilium.

Cerucal is available in tablets and injections, the medicinal substance is metoclopramide. After taking the tablets, the result is observed after 1-2 hours, after injection intravenously - after 3 minutes, intramuscularly - after 15 minutes. Analogs: Reglan, Metoclopramide, Ceruglan.

Motilium is available in the form of a suspension and tablets. The active substance is domperidone. You need to drink 15-30 minutes before meals. Analogues: Motilak, Motonium, Passazhiks.

Detoxification

Drugs that accelerate the process of releasing toxins from the gastrointestinal tract during poisoning:

1. Activated carbon.
2. Ascorbic acid is used for snake bites.
3. Methionine is prescribed for overdose of paracetamol.
4. Atropine will help if the cause is fungi and glycosides.
5. Unithiol removes toxins from intoxication with metals, their compounds, and methanol.
6. Thiamine is an antidote to ethyl alcohol.
7. Glucose is used in overdose of diabetic medications.
8. Hemodez, Neocompensan, Reasorbilact are used only in a hospital under a drip.

Sorbents

Name	Action	Dosage
Black activated carbon (Carbactin, Sorbex, Carbolong)	Binds and removes toxins, microorganisms, allergens, metal salts. Indicated for acute conditions.	1 tablet per 10 kg body weight. Drink once a day. Duration of admission: 5-10 days.
White activated carbon	Analogue of black coal. The difference is the higher concentration of the drug.	3-4 tablets 3-4 times a day
Smecta (Neosmectin)	Available in powder form. Has an adsorbent and antidiarrheal effect.	Dissolve the contents of one sachet in 100 ml of water. Take 3 times a day.
Polysorb	Release form: powder. It has a sorption and detoxification effect. Indicated for any type of intoxication or intestinal infection.	Dissolve 0.2 g of powder per 1 kg of weight in 50-100 mg of water. Take up to four times a day one hour before meals.
Polyphepan	Release form: powder. Effective for chronic and chemical poisoning.	1 tbsp. dissolve a spoon in water. Use up to 4 times a day.
Enterosgel	Eliminates toxins. Used for acute and chronic cases, intestinal infections.	Daily dosage: 22.5 g (1.5 tbsp) up to three times a day.
Atoxyl	Available in powder and suspension form. Indicated for exposure to alcohol and mushrooms.	The daily dosage for adults and children over 7 years of age is 12 mg. Children under 7 years old - 0.15-0.2 g per 1 kg of body, three doses one hour before meals. Course: 5-15 days.
Enterodesis	Release form: powder. Can be used during pregnancy.	5 g up to 3 times a day. Course: 2-7 days.
Filtrum (Lactofiltrum)	Pills. Suitable for acute conditions caused by ammonia, alcohol, drugs, toxins, metal salts, poisons.	Adults – 3 pieces 3 times a day. Children 7-12 years old – 1-2, children 3-7 years old – 1 piece. Drink one hour before meals. Course: 5 days. For chronic forms: 2-3 weeks.

Antipyretics

Acute intoxication provokes an increase in body temperature. Antipyretic drugs are needed.

In case of food poisoning, you can take ibuprofen, paracetamol and acetylsalicylic acid. The use of acetylsalicylic acid in children is not recommended.

Other

Auxiliary medications: rehydrants, antidiarrheals, antimicrobials, analgesics, antibiotics, probiotics.

Rehydrants (Regidron, Acesol, Oralit) restore water and electrolyte balance in the body. Dosage: 1 sachet per 1 liter of water once a day.

Antidiarrheal medications can be taken in case of poisoning and accompanying diarrhea. Drugs: Kaopectate, Loperamide.

Antimicrobial and antibacterial agents must be used as prescribed by a specialist. Used: Dioxidin, Enterol, Levomycetin or Enterofuril. The latter affects only the digestive organs.

Antispasmodics (No-shpa, Platifillin, Papaverine) will help relieve pain from colic.

Probiotics should be used after the end of the acute phase of the disorder to restore the intestinal microflora.

Most often prescribed: Linex, Enterol, Bifiform, Hilak Forte, Bionorm. To prevent problems with the gastrointestinal tract, you can eat natural yoghurts and cottage cheese.

What liquids are best for an adult to drink if poisoned?

Liquid is necessary for a sick body for cleansing and hydration.

1. Warm water. Drink in small sips.
2. Salt and soda solutions will help with vomiting and diarrhea.
3. Tea is good for hydration.
4. Kissels, rice and oatmeal decoctions coat the stomach and relieve irritation.
5. Low-fat broth for poisoning.

When to see a doctor

Self-treatment of intoxication with poisons, toxic gases, pesticides, nitrates, and medications is prohibited.

If a child, pregnant woman or elderly person is poisoned, consult a doctor. Continuous vomiting for more than a day, elevated body temperature (40 degrees and above), and the patient’s unconscious state are reasons to seek medical help.

Timely treatment of intoxication will quickly relieve symptoms, shorten the recovery period and avoid consequences.

In case of intoxication, it is important to begin taking measures aimed at removing harmful substances from the body as early as possible, so the question of what drugs can be taken in case of poisoning at home is very relevant.

Why you can get food poisoning

Food intoxication is generally understood as a dysfunction of organs and systems caused by the ingestion of toxins or poisons. By severity There are three types of poisoning: severe, moderate and mild.

The most common pathogens include:

• Clostridium perfringens, enters the body as a result of poor-quality processing of meat, poultry, and fish;
• Stophylococcus aureus actively reproduces at room temperature. The most likely habitats are salads, fermented milk products, cakes, pates, sauces;
• Bacillus cereus, all perishable products that have not been stored at temperatures up to 6 ° C are susceptible.

Particularly dangerous natural and chemical toxins that can cause food poisoning in living conditions, are contained in poisonous mushrooms and berries, low-quality, expired food products. Poisoning can also be caused by carelessly washed fruits and vegetables that have previously been treated with pesticides used to fertilize plants. Alcohol and surrogates can also be included in this category. Thus, there are known cases of death from methyl alcohol poisoning. Food chemical intoxication occurs when vinegar enters the stomach.

Symptoms of food poisoning:

1. Bacterial: vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and colic, diarrhea.
2. Viral: fever, chills, trembling, stomach pain, vomiting, fever.
3. Chemical: increased sweating, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, pain in the eye area.
4. Botulism: the central nervous system is affected, vomiting, dry mouth, and weakness appear.

If you suspect food poisoning, you should immediately consult a doctor, especially if it concerns children. However, the opportunity to receive medical care is not always available.

In case of acute pathology, it is necessary to take emergency measures, including gastric lavage, taking sorbent drugs and restoring the water-salt balance. Of great importance is the organization of the correct dietary nutrition. The final stage treatment – ​​restorative procedures, including taking multivitamin complexes. As a rule, recovery occurs within 3-5 days.

Clinical picture of food poisoning

The first symptoms of the disease appear during the first 2-6 hours after eating contaminated or low-quality food. In case of severe food poisoning, clinical signs may develop in the first hours.

Please note that in the case of botulism, the first signs of the disease may develop within 1-2 days.

In case of food poisoning, the following symptoms develop:

• nausea followed by vomiting. Vomit may consist of remnants of food, bile, and gastric juice. Vomiting brings temporary relief, but then nausea returns;
• abdominal pain can be localized in the stomach or be like intestinal colic;
• An increase in body temperature is possible with an intestinal infection or with the development of inflammatory complications such as gastritis, pancreatitis, cholecystitis. With salmonellosis it can rise to 39.5 degrees;
• diarrhea develops in the first hours of the disease. With salmonellosis, the stool is foamy and greenish, and with dysentery, the stool is watery and streaked with blood. Diarrhea may be accompanied by abdominal cramps. profuse diarrhea leads to a rapid increase in dehydration;
• flatulence and increased discharge of gases are accompanied by pain in the intestinal area;
• general weakness and dizziness accompany intoxication syndrome. The patient becomes lethargic and drowsy;
• tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), hypotension (low blood pressure) are signs of toxic effects on the body of food and fluid loss. Poisoning with certain types of mushrooms may cause an increase in blood pressure. With severe dehydration, the pulse becomes weak and arrhythmic;
• breathing problems develop when the body is intoxicated. The person breathes quickly, shallowly, complains of shortness of breath;
• convulsions throughout the body, similar to an epileptic seizure, are characteristic of damage to the nervous system by toxins. This is possible due to intoxication with mushrooms, fish, alcohol;
• impaired consciousness, deep coma are signs of a serious condition of the patient. They develop in acute poisoning, infectious-toxic shock.

Please note that in small children the condition worsens faster than in adults. It is very difficult for their body to cope with toxins and loss of fluid and electrolytes.

Why is food poisoning dangerous?

Many people are accustomed to considering food poisoning as a non-dangerous and trivial condition for which there is no need to seek medical help. Indeed, mild poisoning in most cases does not pose a danger to human life, but only a doctor, after examining the patient, can specifically assess the severity of the disease and the patient's condition.

The following are conditions that often develop against the background of severe food poisoning:

• Infectious-toxic shock is a condition caused by severe intoxication and excessive loss of fluid. Shock is accompanied by disruption of the cardiovascular system, breathing, brain and kidneys.
• Acute gastritis develops with severe stomach poisoning by toxins. The mucous membrane of this organ becomes inflamed. The patient's temperature rises and his condition worsens.
• Acute pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. The patient feels unbearable girdle pain in the abdomen, he experiences uncontrollable vomiting, the level of glucose in the blood may decrease and bruises may appear on the skin near the navel. The temperature rises above 38 degrees. This condition requires urgent surgical intervention.
• Acute renal dysfunction is accompanied by a decrease in the amount of urine, swelling, and lower back pain.
• Gastrointestinal bleeding is a complication of food poisoning, which often occurs in patients with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers. Black vomiting and stool develop, severe weakness, pale skin, tachycardia.

Cleansing the body

These procedures are necessary, and it is with them that treatment for food poisoning should begin. The purpose of the manipulation is to help the stomach get rid of food debris that has caused intoxication and harmful toxins.

Even if poisoning is accompanied by severe vomiting, this is not enough to completely cleanse the body. It will have to be induced naturally using a special solution.

Washing should take place in the following order:

1. Prepare a solution of potassium permanganate (the water should be pale pink). If potassium permanganate is not available, you can use regular baking soda (1 tablespoon per 2 liters of boiled water at room temperature).
2. Drink 300-400 ml of solution.
3. Induce vomiting artificially by pressing your fingers on the root of the tongue.
4. Repeat the procedure several more times. The number of doses of the solution drunk at one time should be at least 500 ml.

During the first vomiting, the bulk of the food will be released, but gastric lavage can be stopped only when the liquid ejected from the stomach becomes absolutely clean and transparent.

The absence of the urge to vomit means that the product that caused the poisoning has moved from the stomach to the intestines. In this case, the washing procedure is no longer effective and pointless.

Diarrhea, like vomiting, is nothing more than the body’s protective reaction to toxins entering the gastrointestinal tract. Some patients make a common mistake - they try to stop this phenomenon with the help of medications, for example, Imodium and its analogues. It should be understood that diarrhea is the fastest and most effective method get rid of harmful substances. Retention of feces will lead to the fact that the processes of absorption of toxic poisons and their decay will continue, therefore, the patient’s condition will worsen. The question of taking antidiarrheal medications can only be decided by the attending physician.

If the patient does not have diarrhea, it must be induced with laxatives or an enema. But it is better not to use folk remedies that can provoke diarrhea, so as not to aggravate the course of the disease.

Reception of sorbents

The next step in the treatment of food poisoning is the introduction of sorbent drugs into the body. The action of these products is aimed at absorbing harmful elements., contained in the stomach, and their rapid elimination.

The most common sorbent used for intoxication is activated carbon. This medicine in the form of standard black tablets can be found in any home medicine cabinet and is an excellent remedy for poisoning. Coal should be used at the rate of one tablet per 10 kilograms of weight. The medicine can be taken in two ways: chewed and washed down with plenty of liquid or diluted in boiled water.

In case of poisoning, you can also take white activated carbon, available in tablets or powder. It is believed that, unlike black, it removes toxins, but does not affect the beneficial elements found in the body.

Another advantage of the white sorbent is the dosage: 2-3 tablets are enough (depending on the age and individual characteristics of the patient, the degree of poisoning).

• smecta;
• enterosgel;
• lactofiltrum;
• attapulgite;
• polysorb;
• polyphepan.

These drugs promote the rapid elimination of toxic substances through adsorption. They should be used in the interval between doses of other drugs, during the absence of vomiting. Contraindications to taking such drugs include high fever and stomach ulcers. Elderly people and young children should use it with caution, after consulting a doctor.

Restoring water-salt balance

Vomiting and diarrhea, being a natural reaction of the body to toxins, nevertheless contribute to the excretion of beneficial substances and fluids. Its volume should be replenished. During illness the patient should drink a lot to maintain fluid balance. Mineral water without gas is best suited for this purpose.

To maintain electrolyte balance, it is recommended to drink water with a small addition of table salt (not sea salt). The solution is prepared from 1 liter of water and 1 tsp. salt. You should drink at least 2-2.5 liters of salted water per day. In this case, you need to follow a certain rule: a glass of water an hour before a meal, and after a meal you cannot drink for an hour. In this way, the stomach will be prepared for the next meal and will begin to secrete gastric juice correctly.

To restore the mineral balance, the use of the drugs rehydron and oralite is indicated(contain microelements, glucose and salts).

In case of poisoning, you can also drink weak, sweet black or green tea, a decoction of chamomile or rose hips.

Drug treatment for poisoning

After cleansing the body, restorative therapy with probiotics is indicated to restore the intestinal microflora. The normal intestinal biocenosis after intoxication is almost always disrupted, therefore After recovery, it is recommended to take medications containing beneficial bacteria. These include “Hilak Forte”, “Linex”, “Bionorm”, “Bioflor”.

If food poisoning is accompanied by fever, you should take antipyretic drugs (ibuprofen, paracetamol).

Self-medication is dangerous! Antibiotics, painkillers, as well as specific drugs (antiemetics and antidiarrheals, etc.) are prescribed by a doctor!

Therapeutic diet

During the period of acute intoxication, the patient, as a rule, does not feel the desire to eat. However, this does not mean that he should refuse to eat. A weakened body needs strength to fight the disease. Besides the stomach and intestines cannot fully restore the epithelium, without food it is problematic. Of course, neither an adult nor a child who does not want to eat should be forced, but hunger is not practiced specifically for medicinal purposes.

During poisoning, you should adhere to a strict diet, since the gastrointestinal tract does not work properly and cannot cope with large volumes of food.

During the period of poisoning, the following are prohibited:

• fatty, salty, heavy foods;
• fermented milk products, including milk;
• products instant cooking, semi-finished products;
• alcohol;
• sauces, ketchup, mayonnaise;
• raw fruits, vegetables, berries;
• sweet.

You need to eat 5 times a day, in small portions. Food must be boiled or steamed. Fried foods are excluded.

The patient's diet should consist of:

• mashed potatoes with water, without oil;
• boiled rice;
• oatmeal, semolina porridge (with water);
• chicken meat;
• crackers, biscuits;
• low-fat broths.

It is allowed to eat bananas, as fruits enriched with nutrients, and watermelons, which have a diuretic effect.

In what cases is hospitalization necessary?

Food poisoning can be successfully treated at home, but in some cases qualified medical assistance is necessary. Hospitalization is indicated for children under three years of age. In children, treatment of intoxication should be carried out only under the supervision of medical personnel, since diarrhea and vomiting will very quickly lead to dehydration. It is almost impossible to force a small child to drink, and in the hospital he will be given intravenous rehydration solutions. Pregnant women and elderly people are also hospitalized.

Treatment in a hospital setting is indicated for:

• intoxication caused by poisonous plants and mushrooms;
• severe form of poisoning;
• diarrhea (more than 10-12 times a day);
• high temperature;
• diarrhea with blood;
• persistent vomiting;
• increasing symptoms of the disease;
• bloating;
• loss of consciousness;
• excessive weakness.

If any of these signs occur, you should immediately call an ambulance.

Rehabilitation period after poisoning

Any poisoning is stressful for all organs and systems. It is important to know what to do after poisoning. When discharged from the hospital, the doctor will give you recommendations on proper nutrition and outpatient treatment.

In the first 2 weeks, the patient should adhere to a diet, stop smoking, drinking alcohol, fried, smoked, fatty and spicy foods.

To restore the intestinal microflora, probiotics are prescribed - preparations that contain beneficial bacteria. If complications develop (gastritis, cholecystitis), they are treated.

Traditional methods of treating food poisoning

Folk methods of combating intoxication have not been canceled, however You should resort to them after consulting a doctor and only in cases of mild poisoning..

Cinnamon infusion

Cinnamon is a natural antispasmodic and natural absorbent. Cinnamon infusion is prepared as follows: pour a pinch of dried and crushed bark into 250 ml of hot water, let it brew for 15-20 minutes. Drink the strained broth in small doses throughout the day. Recommended volume is 1.5 liters.

Decoction of yarrow and wormwood

Brew 1 tablespoon of medicinal plants that effectively cleanse the stomach of toxins and pour a liter of boiling water. Let it brew for 15 minutes, strain. Divide the decoction into 5 equal parts and drink throughout the day.

You can use all types of plants - roots, flowers, leaves, as they contribute to a speedy recovery. Marshmallow (1 teaspoon of roots or 2 tablespoons of flowers and leaves) pour a glass of boiling water and leave for 4 hours. Drink 3 times a day. You can add half a teaspoon of honey.

Dill decoction with honey

Honey helps retain potassium, which is excreted during diarrhea and vomiting.. Dill reduces abdominal pain, facilitates vomiting, and promotes the rapid elimination of toxins. Brew a teaspoon of dill seeds with 1.5 cups of boiling water, boil for 3 minutes. Cool, strain, add a teaspoon of beekeeping product to the warm broth. In case of food poisoning at home, the infusion should be taken at least 1 liter per day.

How to Avoid Food Poisoning

Preventive measures to prevent intoxication come down to observing the necessary hygienic procedures, eating only high-quality products, and their correct shelf life.

1. Maintain personal hygiene.
2. Process vegetables and fruits thoroughly.
3. Do not buy products with damaged sealed packaging.
4. Do not eat expired food.
5. Do not hesitate to throw away cloudy drinks with sediment, food with unpleasant smell and taste, as well as ready-made dishes that have been in the refrigerator for more than three days.
6. Eat only those mushrooms and berries that you are confident in.
7. When preparing food, follow the rules of heat treatment.
8. Boil homemade milk first.
9. Drink boiled water.
10. Eliminate cockroaches, flies, and rodents in your home - they are carriers of bacteria.
11. Store raw and cooked meats on separate shelves in the refrigerator.

Follow these simple precautions and you will never experience food poisoning.