What are common symptoms of foodborne illness?

Common symptoms of foodborne illness include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms are direct responses of the body to harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that are ingested through contaminated food or drink. Nausea and vomiting occur as the body attempts to rid itself of the harmful substances, while diarrhea is a mechanism to expel pathogens quickly. Abdominal cramps are often due to inflammation and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract as the body reacts to the presence of these invaders. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for prompt identification and response to foodborne illnesses, allowing for better management and prevention of further cases.

The other options include symptoms that typically do not align with the characteristics of foodborne illnesses. For instance, headaches and fatigue, though they can accompany some illnesses, are not specific to foodborne pathogens. Similarly, cough and fever are more commonly associated with respiratory infections, and skin rash along with dizziness are indicative of allergic reactions or other medical conditions rather than foodborne illness.