Food poisoning: when to call your doctor

3 min read

Most food poisoning is unpleasant but passes within a day or two. In pregnancy it can be more serious, and dehydration matters more, so it is worth knowing when to get help.

Call your doctor or midwife the same day if you have a fever of 38 °C (100.4 °F) or higher or shaking chills, diarrhea for more than a day or with blood, vomiting so often that you cannot keep fluids down, signs of dehydration such as very dark urine or dizziness, belly pain or contractions, or if your baby is moving less than usual.

While you wait, sip small amounts of water or an oral rehydration drink, rest, and eat plain foods when you can. Do not take anti-diarrhea medicine without asking your doctor or pharmacist first.

If you feel very unwell, are confused or faint, or have severe pain, call your emergency number. It is always better to be checked and told everything is fine.