Which of the following is not a common symptom of a foodborne illness?

Swelling is not typically associated with foodborne illnesses. Common symptoms of foodborne illnesses usually include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which are digestive system reactions to the pathogens or toxins present in contaminated food or water. These symptoms arise as the body attempts to rid itself of the harmful substances, leading to gastrointestinal distress.

Nausea is the sensation that often precedes vomiting and indicates that the body may need to expel unwanted substances. Vomiting is a direct response to irritants in the stomach or intestines, while diarrhea can occur as the intestines expel toxins and pathogens. Each of these symptoms plays a role in the body’s protective measures against foodborne pathogens. In contrast, swelling is not a common symptom related to foodborne illnesses and is more often associated with allergic reactions or other medical conditions.