How long does food poisoning last?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
Most food poisoning clears within a week, and many cases improve in 1 to 3 days with rest and fluids. Symptoms typically begin within hours to a few days of the contaminated meal. The bug is rarely the danger - dehydration is, so keep sipping fluids and use oral rehydration solution if vomiting or diarrhea is heavy. Skip anti-diarrhea medicine if you have blood in your stool or a high fever, and go get seen for blood in vomit or stool, signs of dehydration (very little urine, dizziness on standing), a high fever, severe belly pain, or diarrhea past three days. Pregnant people, older adults, babies, and the immunocompromised should seek care earlier. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text, and can help you tell a normal course from one that needs help.
What to do
- Prioritize fluids over food: small, frequent sips; oral rehydration solution beats plain water when losses are heavy.
- Eat when you feel ready: bland foods first; appetite returning is a good sign.
- Know the get-seen list: blood in stool or vomit, dehydration signs, high fever, severe pain, or diarrhea beyond three days.
- Do not prepare food for others while sick: many food poisoning bugs spread easily from hands.
Related questions
- What helps nausea fast?
- Can dehydration cause dizziness?
- How long is the flu contagious?
- When should an adult go to the hospital for a fever?