DEAR MISS MANNERS: I hosted two couples for dinner at our home that went very well. The next day, I was experiencing some stomach upset and GI issues. I am not sure if the culprit was the food I served, but if so, it may have been that the lettuce was not thoroughly washed.

I texted my guests to thank them again for coming and let them know we enjoyed their company. I also told them about my GI issues and asked if they were experiencing any symptoms, saying that if they were, I apologized profusely.

My husband told me that it was rude to inquire about their health, since we weren’t sure about whether it was the food that made me sick. He also said I “put them on the spot” regarding either confirming that my culinary error made them sick or fibbing to make me feel better.

GENTLE READER: There are ways to inquire about others’ health without going into sordid details. The phrase “GI issues,” for example, need not be uttered (twice, here, making Miss Manners herself rather queasy).

Instead, you may say, “I do hope that you are feeling well after our dinner. I myself felt a bit off, so I just wanted to check on you.”

And make sure that next time, you thoroughly wash that lettuce.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.