So-called salmonellosis is a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract, but are symptoms distinguishable during a salmonella infection? In order to answer this question, it is advisable to find out more about the type of disease. Typically, most people with such an infection experience no symptoms. However, others develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps within 8 to 72 hours. In addition, the majority of those affected recover within a few days without specific treatment. The following information can help you learn more about the differences in this intestinal infection.
The bacteria described above typically live in the animal and human gastrointestinal tract and are excreted in the feces. People most often become infected through contaminated water or food. In some cases, the diarrhea associated with salmonellosis can be so dehydrating that immediate medical attention is required. Life-threatening complications can also develop if the infection spreads beyond your intestines. The risk of a salmonella infection is therefore higher if youtravel to countries, where hygiene is not taken into account.
A few times a year there is worrying news about an outbreak of this intestinal infection. This bacterial infection is often caused bycontaminated wateror food, meaning it can affect populations at the same time. On the consumer side, such infection outbreaks can lead to product recalls. On the health side, infections can lead to illness, hospitalization and, in rare cases, even death. All in all, it's a good idea to stay up to date on news and learn about symptoms if infections occur in your area.
How bacteria cause salmonellosis
Of course, if you think you are experiencing symptoms from a salmonella infection, the priority is to confirm the diagnosis and begin treatment. This means that you should go to a doctor. As already mentioned, salmonella are microbes that primarily affect the intestinal tract. Some gut bacteria of this type lead to typhoid fever, a sometimes fatal disease that is more common in developing countries. Here are the most common signs and symptoms to look out for when it comes to salmonella.
Salmonella infection is usually caused by eating raw or undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, or egg products. The incubation period ranges from several hours to two days. Most salmonella infections can be classified as stomach flu (gastroenteritis). Signs and symptoms of a salmonella infection generally last two to seven days. Diarrhea can last up to 10 days, although it may take several months for the bowel to return to normal.
If symptoms occur with salmonella infection
The main symptoms of a salmonella infection are diarrhea, vomiting, fever and abdominal cramps. Symptoms typically begin six hours to six days after the initial infection and can last four to seven days. To be sure you have salmonella (and not another foodborne illness or stomach upset), you need to have a lab test of your stool or blood. Most people infected with salmonella usually recover within a few days at home by drinking plenty of fluids. However, older patients, infants and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to suffer from more severe illness.
Although a salmonella infection often clears up at home, it is important to see your doctor. If your symptoms are severe or if you are in a location with an outbreak, a medical visit would be a good idea. Doctors can help you determine the best course of treatment. This may require an antibiotic to eliminate the salmonella and help you recover. Anyone suffering from dehydration due to diarrhea and/or vomiting should go to the hospital to replenish lost fluids. Signs of dehydration include dry urine and mouth and dizziness when standing up.
How eating food can lead to salmonella infection
As described above, consumption of raw meat, poultry and seafood can be a possible cause of thebacterial intestinal infectionbe. Feces can get onto raw meat and poultry during the slaughtering process. Seafood can be contaminated if harvested from contaminated water. While an egg's shell appears to be a perfect barrier against contamination, some infected chickens also produce eggs that contain salmonella. This happens before the shell has even formed. In addition, raw eggs are used in homemade versions of mayonnaise and hollandaise sauce.
Some fresh produce, particularly imported varieties, may be hydrated in the field or washed by water contaminated with Salmonella during processing. Contamination can also occur in the kitchen when juices from raw meat and poultry come into contact with uncooked foods such as salads. Some outbreaks of the infection have even been traced to contaminants in spices. Many foods become contaminated when prepared by people who do not wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet or changing diapers. Infection can also occur if you touch something contaminated, including pets, and then put your fingers in your mouth. Birds and reptiles could be particularly highly infectious.
Which risk factors can cause symptoms of salmonella infection
Factors that can increase your risk of salmonella infection include activities that can bring you into closer contact with salmonella bacteria. This also includes health problems that can weaken your resistance to infections in general. Some types of bacteria that cause typhoid fever are more common in developing countries with poor sanitation. However, the body has many natural defense mechanisms against salmonella infection. For example, strong stomach acid can kill many such bacteria.
Some medical problems or medications can short-circuit these natural defenses. Lowering the acidity of your stomach allows more salmonella bacteria to survive. Inflammatory bowel disease is also a disorder that can damage your intestinal lining, making it easier for microbes to take hold. Recent use of antibiotics may also reduce the number of “good” bacteria in the gut, which may affect your ability to fight off a salmonella infection.
Preventive measures
The most important thing you can do is make sure you don't spread bacteria to others. Preventive measures are particularly important when preparing food or caring for infants, older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Additionally, be sure to cook foods thoroughly and refrigerate or freeze raw meat immediately. Washing your hands thoroughly can also help prevent transmission to your mouth or to foods you prepare.
To avoid cross-contamination, store raw meat, poultry, and seafood separately from other foods in your refrigerator. If possible, keep two cutting boards in your kitchen - one for raw meat and the other for fruits and vegetables. Also, never place cooked food on an unwashed plate that previously contained raw meat. Cookie dough, homemade ice cream, and eggnog all contain raw eggs. If you want to eat raw eggs, you should make sure they have been pasteurized.
