5 Common Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning You Need to Know
Salmonella poisoning is a foodborne illness caused by a bacteria called Salmonella. It is one of the most common types of food poisoning prevalent throughout the world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Salmonella causes around 1.35 million infections and 26,500 hospitalizations every year in the United States alone.
In this article, we will discuss the five common symptoms of salmonella poisoning that you need to be aware of to take prompt action and get timely treatment.
Symptom 1: Abdominal Pain and Cramps
Salmonella poisoning often leads to severe abdominal pain and cramps. These symptoms typically start within 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food or water. The pain may be felt in the upper or lower abdomen and can be severe enough to disrupt daily activities. The cramps can be constant or intermittent and can feel like stabbing or twisting inside the stomach.
Symptom 2: Diarrhea
Diarrhea is another common symptom of salmonella poisoning. It is usually watery and may contain traces of blood or mucus. The diarrhea can be severe and may occur multiple times a day, causing dehydration and weakness. The onset of diarrhea can be sudden and may last up to a week or more.
Symptom 3: Nausea and Vomiting
Salmonella poisoning can cause nausea and vomiting, which may or may not be accompanied by diarrhea. The vomiting may be severe and can last for several hours, leading to dehydration and fatigue. Nausea may also be accompanied by loss of appetite, making it difficult to eat or drink anything.
Symptom 4: Fever
Fever is a common symptom of salmonella poisoning and may occur with or without other symptoms. The fever can be moderate to high and may last for several days. It usually indicates that the body is trying to fight off the infection by producing more white blood cells.
Symptom 5: Headache
Salmonella poisoning can also cause headaches, which may be severe and persistent. The headache may be accompanied by a feeling of overall weakness and fatigue. These symptoms can make it difficult to work or carry out day-to-day activities.
Conclusion
Salmonella poisoning is a serious illness that requires prompt medical attention. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. In addition, it is important to take preventive measures to avoid getting infected with salmonella. This includes washing hands and cooking utensils thoroughly, cooking meat and eggs properly, and avoiding cross-contamination of raw and cooked foods. By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of getting infected with salmonella and stay healthy.
