One of the biggest fears of the modern world is food poisoning. While many people associate this fear with eating out, in reality, most cases are due to cross contamination in the home. For example, using the same knife to cut chicken and lettuce may contaminate it with the chicken germs. It is also important to wash your hands before and after handling raw meat and produce to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Symptoms of food poisoning may be similar to the flu, including stomach cramps and diarrhea. Some people even experience a fever and lightheadedness. While you may not experience these symptoms, you should stay hydrated and drink plenty of electrolytes. Drinking plenty of water will help restore fluid balance and help the body heal. You should seek medical attention if you think you’ve become ill from eating contaminated food.
Treatment for this disorder may include therapy. For example, if you’ve recently been sick from a food borne illness, you may want to try visualizing a pickle in a room. If that doesn’t work, try walking through the pickle aisle in a grocery store or sitting next to a person who eats pickles. Your healthcare provider will likely suggest a treatment plan based on these suggestions.
Those with emetophobia often experience severe anxiety associated with the threat of vomiting. They often avoid food or places associated with vomiting. They may even stop eating certain foods altogether. The fear can even prevent a person from taking field trips and riding school buses. This phobia can also affect the health of family members. So, how do you get rid of the fear of food poisoning?
