Skip to content
My WebMD Sign In, Sign Up

Food Poisoning Health Center

Font Size
A
A
A

Food Poisoning and Safe Food Handling - Exams and Tests

Most food poisoning is mild and passes in a few days, so most people do not go to a doctor for a diagnosis. You can often diagnose food poisoning yourself if others who ate the same food as you also become ill.

If you do go to your doctor, he or she will make the diagnosis based on your symptoms, a physical exam, and your medical history. Your doctor will ask where you have been eating and whether anyone who ate the same food has the same symptoms.

Recommended Related to Food Poisoning

Botulism

Important It is possible that the main title of the report Botulism is not the name you expected.

Read the Botulism article > >

Sometimes the following tests are done.

Your doctor may need to report your condition to the health department. This is done to help the government track the condition and identify possible outbreaks.

Next Article:

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 08, 2011
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

Today in Food Poisoning

listeria bacteria
Slideshow
7 Ways To Prevent Foodborne Illness
Video
 
Salmonella (Generic)
Slideshow
Is It Really Food Poisoning
Feature
 
Are Some Eggs Safer Than Others
Feature
Do You Need To Wash Bagged Salads
Video
 
Clean Your Fridge For Food Safety
Feature
Organic Food Slideshow
Slideshow
 

Explore our newly expanded FDA Center on WebMD for timely information on food safety, allergies, diabetes, vitamins & supplements, and more!

How The FDA Protects Food Safety
Slideshow
The Dangers Of E Coli
Video
 
Secrets Of Safe Grilling
Video
How Long Can You Keep Condiments
Tool