Someone starts vomiting after eating seafood. Their companion says: “It’s probably just an upset stomach.” However, if that person also simultaneously experiences:
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Hives.
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Swollen lips.
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Wheezing.
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Difficulty breathing.
then the story is entirely different.
Food Allergies
The FDA lists allergic symptoms that may include:
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Hives/rash.
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Itching in the mouth.
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Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
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Vomiting/diarrhea.
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Coughing, wheezing.
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Dizziness.
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Swollen throat.
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Difficulty breathing.
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Loss of consciousness.
Anaphylaxis Is a Medical Emergency
Airway swelling, shortness of breath, a drop in blood pressure, or loss of consciousness can develop very quickly. If the patient has been prescribed an epinephrine/adrenaline auto-injector by a doctor, use it according to the guided action plan and seek emergency medical care immediately. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis; do not delay administration waiting for antihistamines to take effect.
In Vietnam, call 112 for emergency assistance. Do not self-inject medication unless it was prescribed for you and you have been trained on how to use it.
What About Food Poisoning / Digestive Upset?
Symptoms tend to involve:
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Abdominal pain.
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Diarrhea.
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Vomiting.
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Fever.
The initial goal is to prevent dehydration. If the patient is alert and able to drink, offer small sips of water or a suitable oral rehydration solution. Do not force them to drink large amounts at once while vomiting.
5 Signs the CDC Recommends Seeing a Doctor For
The CDC notes severe food poisoning symptoms include:
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Bloody diarrhea.
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Fever higher than about 38,9°C.
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Frequent vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down.
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Signs of dehydration.
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Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days.
Concerning Signs of Dehydration
Examples: Severe thirst. Very dry mouth. Little to no urination. Dizziness. Young children and older adults can become dehydrated more quickly.
If the Whole Group Gets Sick
Retain:
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Receipts.
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Dish names.
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Restaurant name.
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Meal time.
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Time symptoms began.
This information is helpful for medical facilities and regulatory authorities if a food safety investigation is needed.
Quick Checklist
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Hives + difficulty breathing = do not wait.
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Swollen throat/tongue = emergency.
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Have a prescribed epinephrine auto-injector → use according to the trained plan.
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Vomiting/diarrhea → watch for dehydration.
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Vomiting and unable to keep liquids down → see a doctor.
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Bloody diarrhea → see a doctor.
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Save receipts if food poisoning from an eatery is suspected.
