August 2026
Foodborne illnesses such as salmonella and cyclospora can cause uncomfortable symptoms, but knowing what to watch for can help you recover safely and recognize when medical care may be needed.
Diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea and vomiting are among the most common symptoms. Some people may also develop a fever, and prolonged symptoms can lead to dehydration, particularly in older adults.
“Both of those illnesses generally end up causing relatively severe diarrhea. That's the main thing most people notice. A lot of cramping in the abdomen and then even some nausea and vomiting. Occasionally you can get a fever,” says Aaron Case, M.D., an emergency medicine physician at Providence Milwaukie Hospital.
Most people recover at home with rest and fluids. Drinking water or diluted sports drinks can help replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
Dr. Case says simple hydration solutions are often the best approach.
“Hydration, really, this is something that I recommend to my patients, is essentially water or diluted Gatorade or something of that nature, like a diluted sports drink cut in half is probably the best hydration solution where you got plenty of fluids and a little bit of sugar and a little bit of electrolytes,” Dr. Case says.
Seek medical attention if you're unable to keep fluids down, feel faint or show signs of significant dehydration. Washing produce and avoiding spoiled foods can also help reduce your risk of illness.
See the news
KATU | Family Matters: Food-borne Illnesses
Related news
- See more of our services at Providence Milwaukie Hospital.
- Get expert advice on stomach and colon health from our registered dietitican.
- Learn more about stretching the family food budget with our Providence Milwaukie Hospital Teaching Kitchen.
