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How can food poisoning be managed at home?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I believe I have food poisoning. I have been vomiting for the past seven hours (a total of seven to eight times). I also have chills and dizziness. I have been walking about 20 km a day for the past three weeks, so I am very exhausted. I have taken Paracetamol and activated charcoal, but nothing stays down. What can I do to help myself if there are no doctors or pharmacies nearby?

Please help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am really sorry you are going through this. It does sound like food poisoning, and considering the frequency of vomiting, chills, dizziness, and your recent physical exhaustion, you are likely dealing with severe dehydration and possibly an infection. Here is what you can do right now, even without access to a doctor or pharmacy.

Rehydration is the priority. You have likely lost a lot of fluids and electrolytes. Even very small sips are important. Try taking tiny sips of water every five to ten minutes, even just a teaspoon at a time. If you can find salt and sugar, prepare a homemade oral rehydration solution (0.26 gallons of clean water, 6 level teaspoons of sugar, and half a level teaspoon of salt). Sip this solution slowly; do not drink large amounts at once. If plain water is all you have, start with that.

Stop medications for now. Since you are vomiting everything, it is better to hold off on taking charcoal or Paracetamol for now. They could worsen your nausea or further irritate your stomach.

Rest in a safe position. Lie down on your side or in a semi-seated position with your head elevated, in case you vomit again. Keep yourself warm, but avoid overheating; your chills may be due to dehydration or a mild fever.

Monitor for danger signs. Seek help immediately if you notice any of the following:

  1. You cannot keep down any fluids for more than 12 hours.
  2. Your vomit turns green (bile) or contains blood.
  3. Your heart is racing, your vision becomes blurry, or you feel like you might faint.
  4. You do not urinate at all for over eight to ten hours.

Once you have not vomited for about an hour. Continue rehydrating carefully and gradually introduce bland foods such as dry bread, plain rice, or bananas. If you are still vomiting after 12 hours, or if you cannot rehydrate yourself, you must seek medical help, even if it means contacting emergency services or finding any nearby clinic.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At June 27, 2025
Reviewed AtJune 27, 2025

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