Customer question:
What are the symptoms of salmonella? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Most people develop diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps within 8 to 72 hours of exposure. Some people with salmonella do not show symptoms. Symptoms of salmonella affect the stomach and intestines and include:
- diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
- raised body temperature
- abdominal pain or cramps
- nausea and vomiting
- headache
You can show all or only some of the above symptoms. When you have salmonella, your stool is usually runny and may contain blood. Although vomiting is not always a sign of salmonella, the most common symptoms are diarrhea and fever.
The Salmonella bacterium causes salmonella poisoning. Salmonella bacteria live in the intestines of humans and animals, but things we eat, drink, and touch can also be infected.
We can become infected with the following:
- raw eggs and eggshells
- raw red meat, seafood, and poultry
- fruits and vegetables
- unpasteurized milk or cheese
- unpurified water
- hides, feathers, scales, skin, and excrement of animals
- surfaces around someone infected with Salmonella bacteria
Salmonella is usually not treated with drugs. However, you may need antibiotic treatment if you are seriously ill or at high risk of complications. For example, if you have severe diarrhea, you may need to be treated in hospital for dehydration.
The most important way to manage salmonella symptoms is to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Liquids that help you stay hydrated include:
- water
- sports drinks with electrolytes
- 100% fruit juices with added water
- oral rehydration solutions
- vegetable and chicken soups
