Food
Poisoning
This is actually a bacterial infection of the digestive tract, usually
of the upper digestive tract (localized to the stomach), caused
by the presence of bacterial toxins in spoiled food. This, coupled
with the overgrowth of bacteria (often E. coli and/or Salmonella),
leads to symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Treatment
Goal(s):
· Eliminate infection, manage fever, soothe digestive tract,
normalize immunity and digestive function.
Primary
Treatment:
· If there is nausea but no vomiting, and infection is suspected,
administer an emetic such as Lobelia or Ipecachuana at moderate
doses to encourage vomiting.
· Administer Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal) in capsule
form to treat the infection and heal the gastric mucosa.
· Support digestive function with the use of bitters such
as Gentiana lutea (Gentian) or Artemisia species (Wormwood or Mugwort,
Wormwood being the stronger one).
· Support immunity with Echinacea as for any infection.
· Manage fever with diaphoretics such as Sambucus canadensis
(Elder) flowers
Supportive
Treatment:
· Warm compresses applied to the area of the sternum can
provide some relief.
· Use foods that are simple, steamed, and easy to digest
(nutrient broths as well) but avoid feeding during the most acute
phase of the infection.
· Replenish electrolytes using a good-quality mineral supplement
(such as Emergen-C)
· Digestive function can become upset after a GI infection.
Administer astringent herbs such as Filipendula (Meadowsweet) for
diarrhea or gentle aperients such as Rumex crispus (Yellowdock)
for constipation. Use Zingiber (Ginger) for lingering nausea and
to settle the stomach.
Differential
diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· In young children, the loss of electrolytes can be very
dangerous and may require the administration of IV fluids.
· Persistent, unresolved infection (more than 4 days) may
require antibiotic treatment especially if accompanied by continued
vomiting.
