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Now that the holiday season is officially in full swing, you may be spending a lot of time dining with friends and relatives. However, each time you eat food that's been prepared and served by someone other than yourself, you increase your risk of developing food poisoning. That's because there's no way to ensure that proper handling methods are followed when you're not in charge of the meal. When most people think of food poisoning, they think of simple flu-like symptoms. Unfortunately, food poisoning can be quite serious; even life-threatening. If you're suffering from a serious case of food poisoning following a holiday party, you need to take quick action to protect your health and your rights. Here are four things you need to do as soon as you suspect that you've contracted food poisoning. 

Seek Immediate Medical Care

If you've taken ill after attending a holiday party, it's crucial that you seek immediate medical care. Delaying medical care for the symptoms of food poisoning can have devastating consequences on your health. Some symptoms that require immediate medical attention include uncontrolled vomiting, explosive diarrhea, and severe headaches. When you arrive at the emergency room, inform the attendant that you suspect food poisoning. 

Notify the Party Hosts

If your emergency room visit confirms that you're suffering from food poisoning, you need to notify the party hosts as soon as possible. They'll need to let their other guests know about the situation. Those guests should also visit the emergency room, especially if they're showing signs of sickness. Informing the party host will also put them on notice that they may be liable for your illness, especially if your bout with food poisoning has required you to miss work or has left you with permanent health concerns. 

Document the Conditions

If you've contracted food poisoning at a holiday party you attended, you'll need to document the conditions. Your documentation should include as many details as you can remember about the food that was served at the party, as well as details surrounding the manner in which food was prepared or served. For instance, if hot food was allowed to cool to room temperature or cold food was kept out of the refrigerator, you'll need to document those issues. It's also important to document things such as the mingling of raw meat and fresh vegetables on food prep surfaces. Those are all issues that can increase the risk of food poisoning. 

Contact an Attorney

Finally, if you've contracted food poisoning during a holiday party, and the hosts aren't cooperating, you need to contact a personal injury attorney right away. You may have the right to compensation for your illness. Don't hesitate to reach out to a legal service such as Buckley  Law Office.