There are many different kinds of illnesses that can cause symptoms of diarrhea, fever, or abdominal cramps. Eating contaminated foods will cause what is commonly referred to as food poisoning, which is accompanied by a combination of these symptoms. A stomach irritation or inflammation is called gastroenteritis, basically, an infection of the gut.
In the United States, one of the most common causes of food poisoning is the salmonella enterocolitis pathogen. Salmonella is present in the small intestines of humans and animals, and it is also commonly found in feces. When salmonella is consumed, the result is a particularly unpleasant infection.
How is salmonella contracted?
Salmonellosis is the foodborne illness that is caused by the salmonella bacteria. Items such as beef, poultry, milk, and eggs are most often infected with salmonella. They become safe with thorough cooking; however, fruits and vegetables may also be contaminated and are often not cooked.
What are the symptoms of salmonella?
It takes between 8 - 48 hours from the time of infection before symptoms appear. People suffering from salmonella infections commonly experience painful abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and fever. Some people also suffer joint aches and become very concerned when they experience bloody diarrhea with mucous. It may take several months for your bowels to return to normal.
How should salmonella be treated?
Most people treat a salmonella infection by managing symptoms until it passes. It will usually resolve without treatment, but antibiotic therapy can shorten the illness. It may also respond to medicinal herbal treatments, such as taking a buffered vitamin C powder. Parasite-killer herbs such as fresh garlic, goldenseal, black walnut, and powdered cloves could work as well.
Your doctor may prescribe charcoal capsules and plenty of fluids. If the case includes severe diarrhea, you may require rehydration with intravenous fluids. Patients with severe illness may require the antibiotic therapy. The best treatments of salmonella infection during pregnancy is highly contested, so be sure to seek advice from medical professionals in this situation.
How can salmonella be prevented?
It only takes a second for a food item to be contaminated by the hands of an infected food handler. It is critical for employees to wash hands with soap after using the bathroom. All public restrooms should be posted with this reminder. For our protection, those who are responsible for the food we eat should be required to wash their hands each time they enter the food area as well.
