What is a common symptom of foodborne illness?

Abdominal cramps are a common symptom of foodborne illness because they are often caused by the body's reaction to pathogens, toxins, or irritants that are ingested along with contaminated food or water. When harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites enter the digestive system, they can lead to inflammation and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in symptoms like cramps. This symptom typically signals that the body is struggling to cope with the disturbance caused by the contaminated food.

In contrast, while headaches, fatigue, and skin rashes can occur in some cases, they are not typical indicators of foodborne illness. Headaches may arise from dehydration or other unrelated issues, fatigue could be a general symptom of illness or stress, and skin rashes usually relate to allergic reactions or other conditions rather than foodborne infections. Therefore, abdominal cramps serve as a more direct and specific indicator of problems associated with foodborne pathogens.