How to prepare for a video visit about Food Poisoning (Suspected)

Audience: adult

Food poisoning happens when you eat food or drink water contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, or toxins. Symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. Most people recover without needing to see a doctor, but a video visit can help if symptoms are severe or last longer than a few days. Preparing for your telemedicine appointment can make the visit smoother and help your healthcare provider understand your situation better. This guide explains what to expect during the video visit, what information to have ready, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool for initial advice and guidance but is not a substitute for emergency or in-person care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe dehydration signs such as dizziness, dry mouth, or very little urine output — seek emergency care immediately.
• Blood in vomit or stool — contact emergency services or go to the hospital promptly.
• High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) lasting more than two days — arrange urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of symptoms and medical history related to suspected food poisoning.
• Providing advice on hydration, diet, and symptom management at home.
• Determining if symptoms require urgent in-person care or testing.
• Answering questions about prevention and general care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or diagnostic tests such as stool cultures.
• Administering intravenous fluids or medications.
• Managing severe dehydration or complications requiring emergency treatment.
• Providing prescriptions for controlled substances without prior in-person evaluation.

What is Food Poisoning?

Food poisoning occurs when you consume food or drinks contaminated with germs like bacteria, viruses, or parasites. It can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and sometimes fever. These symptoms usually start within hours to a few days after eating contaminated food.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your telemedicine appointment, gather important information to share with your healthcare provider:

What to Expect During the Video Visit

During the video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, recent food exposures, and medical history. They may guide you on how to manage symptoms at home, such as staying hydrated and resting. In some cases, they might recommend tests or in-person care if needed.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Certain signs mean you should get urgent medical attention:

If you have any of these, seek emergency care immediately.

Managing Food Poisoning at Home

Most food poisoning cases improve with rest and fluids. Drink water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths to prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and fatty or spicy foods until you feel better. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice carefully.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Make a list of your symptoms, including when they started and how severe they are.
• Note any recent foods or drinks you think may have caused illness.
• Have a list of current medications and supplements ready.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) has a working camera and microphone.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for your video visit.
• Be prepared to describe your overall health and any chronic conditions.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow your healthcare provider’s advice on hydration and diet.
• Monitor your symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or red flags appear.
• Rest as much as possible to help your body recover.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions or new symptoms after the visit.

FAQs

How long does food poisoning usually last?

Symptoms of food poisoning often last from a few hours to several days. Most people start feeling better within 1 to 3 days, but some infections can last longer depending on the cause.

Can I take medicine to stop diarrhea?

Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medicines may help some people, but they are not always recommended, especially if you have a high fever or bloody diarrhea. It’s best to follow your healthcare provider’s advice.

How can I prevent food poisoning in the future?

Prevent food poisoning by practicing good food safety: wash hands before eating or cooking, cook meats thoroughly, avoid raw or undercooked foods, refrigerate perishables promptly, and drink safe water.

When should I see a doctor in person?

See a doctor in person if you have severe symptoms like dehydration, bloody stools, high fever lasting more than two days, or if you are unable to keep fluids down.

Sources

1. Food Poisoning — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Foodborne Illnesses — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Food Poisoning: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Foodborne Diseases — World Health Organization (WHO).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.