Most cases of food poisoning can be handled at home. Symptoms can begin within hours and last for hours or days and even longer in some cases. Mildly contaminated foods, or some types of contaminants, may not cause the symptoms to start for several days, or even longer. When the onset of symptoms is delayed, the duration of the problem can last for days to weeks. Chronic symptoms should be promptly evaluated by a doctor especially if you are having hematemesis or hematochezia, which is bloody vomit or diarrhea, respectively. The symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, sweating, and fever. You may want to let your stomach settle for an hour or so, but then you need to start introducing fluids to prevent dehydration. Take small sips of whatever liquid you can most easily tolerate, and continue to drink as much as possible throughout the day. Sip on water or suck on ice chips. Taking small sips of water may help calm nausea and will provide your body with a small and steady dose of this essential liquid. If your stomach is not ready for liquid, then try putting ice chips in your mouth and let them dissolve. Try sucking on a ginger candy or drink some ginger tea. Ginger can help with digestion and treat stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea. Diarrhea and vomiting also cause your body to lose essential electrolytes. A good way to replace the lost electrolytes is to sip on a caffeine-free sports drink (not an energy drink) once you can hold it down. Other products are available for adults and children that help to replenish fluids and restore electrolytes. These products are called electrolyte replacement drinks. Types of sports drinks include Gatorade and Powerade, to name a few. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for a specific recommendation. Sometimes a little carbonation may actually help reduce symptoms of nausea. Try sipping on ginger ale or other clear carbonated beverages over ice. Sip on clear broth, such as chicken, vegetable, or beef, once your stomach has settled enough and you are not likely to trigger the nausea and vomiting. Starting with broth is a good way to help replenish fluids and begin to introduce nutrients back into your body. Move on to foods that are bland, low-fat, and easily digested. Some examples include saltine crackers, toast, and gelatin. Back away from these solid foods if your nausea returns. Some beverages should not be used while are trying to restore the fluids you lost during your illness. Some liquids pull water from your body tissues and contribute to the problem of dehydration. Alcoholic beverages are not to be used while you are still sick. Avoid caffeinated beverages including coffee, tea, colas, or energy drinks. Fruit juices and fruit drinks contain carbohydrates, are low in sodium, and may aggravate your upset stomach. Avoid dairy products and spicy drinks or foods until you are feeling better.

Summary:
Handle the symptoms at home. Sip on water. Take sips of a sports drink that contains electrolytes. Try clear carbonated sodas. Introduce clear broth when ready. Avoid fluids that contribute to dehydration.