The food poisoning caused by eating meat is usually the result of bacterial contamination. This is usually due to incorrect storage, handling or cooking procedures. The signs and symptoms of food poisoning can range from minor to severe, depending on the extent of the bacteria present as well as the type. The symptoms typically start within 4-24 hours after ingestion of the spoiled meat. Mild cases of food poisoning often resolve without requiring any form of treatment but severe cases requires medical care.
What are the intestinal symptoms?
The symptoms of food poisoning initially affect the digestive tract. The intestinal system reacts to the invading bacteria with signs and symptoms such as bloating, abdominal cramps, nausea and gas. Once the body attempts to eliminate the bacteria, the individual can also experience diarrhea and vomiting which can result to blood-streaked diarrhea.
When it comes to an E. coli infection, the individual can experience more blood in the stool that can last for up to 3 days after consuming the spoiled meat.
Body aches
As the body generates chemicals to fight off the bacteria, these chemicals can trigger an aching sensation in the muscles or head. If the individual has been experiencing vomiting and diarrhea, he/she might end up dehydrated which lead to the depletion of electrolytes in the body that contributes to sore muscles. In addition, the individual can also experience overall body weakness that can indicate a serious condition that requires immediate attention.
Elevated body temperature
Most types of viruses and bacteria that can cause any type of infection in humans thrive best at 98.6 degrees F. Take note that this is the average temperature of the human body. In an attempt to eliminate the bacteria from the spoiled meat, the body increases its temperature which results to fever.
Having a fever is considered as a normal part of the immune response of the body and often accompanied by chills. On the other hand, this can cause harm if it persists for a long period or too high. It is recommended to consult a doctor if the fever lasts for more than 48 hours or higher than 103 degrees F.
Other symptoms
Most cases of food poisoning after eating spoiled meat might be due to bacteria that only trigger digestive symptoms, but some types of bacteria are considered as exceptions.
Even though an uncommon type of food poisoning, spoiled meat infected by Clostridium botulinum or botulism can cause double or blurry vision, difficulty speaking, light sensitivity, paralyzed eye nerves and swallowing difficulty. In severe cases of botulism, it can lead to the paralysis of the muscles and cause respiratory failure. As for spoiled meat infected by campylobacter, it can cause urinary tract infections and even reactive arthritis in severe cases.