The smell of oil is a sure sign that seafood should not be eaten. Trainers at federal fishery labs sniff for tainted seafood. The inspection is done after the catch before it is sent to market. NOAA and the FDA do actual chemical testing. The large number of fishermen. fisheries and processors makes it impossible to inspect and test all the seafood. Smelling your food before you cook or eat it is a way to avoid food poisoning.
If you do suspect food poisoning after ingesting seafood, you may have the following symptoms:
- stomach cramps
- nausea and vomiting
- fever and chills
- diarrhea
- bloody stools
- weakness
These symptoms usually occur from 30 minutes to several hours after eating the tainted food. If suspected call your doctor or visit your emergency room as soon as possible. To avoid severe illness take in as much clear liquids as possible to prevent dehydration. It is best to avoid solid foods for 24 hours, and then slowly advance from a soft, bland diet to regular food.
Clear liquids include water, ginger ale, tea. An easy soft diet to remember is BRAT - bananas, rice, applesauce, toast. Avoid dairy products, greasy food, alcohol and raw foods for 48 hours as this may worsen the symptoms. Soft diet may be started after 24 hours without nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If symptoms persist or worsen in any way call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
by J.L, Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.
This book provides 112 pages (large print) of health information that will tell you what your doctor should be asking you, telling you, and doing for you - as taught in medical school and used since Hippocrates
