E. coli, which stands for Escherichia coli is a type of bacteria which causes food poisoning and an inflammation of the intestines. According to the National Institutes of Health, not every strand of E. coli is harmful, yet some cause health problems when ingested. E. coli tends to contaminate food because of unsafe food handling, or unsanitary procedures in the meat packing industry. Though it is common in beef and chicken, E. coli can also be found in dairy and fresh produce. When someone eats a product contaminated by E. coli, they experience a host of uncomfortable food poisoning symptoms.
Diarrhea
According to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, food poisoning caused by E. coli tends to cause watery diarrhea, as early as one to three days after eating the food or drinking the beverage, which was contaminated. Dehydration sometimes occurs since the diarrhea is so virulent. The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center even states that diarrhea from an E. coli food poisoning can even become bloody and last up to a week long.
Stomach Cramping
Another common symptom of food poisoning caused by E. coli is painful stomach cramping. This can occur whether or not diarrhea occurs. Stomach cramping can become so painful that it can cause a person to go to the hospital or emergency room. Unfortunately, there is not much physicians can do for stomach cramping. The National Institutes of Health states that antidiarrheal medications reduce cramping, but are not usually recommended because they slow the rate at which the E. coli bacteria leaves the digestive tract.
Loss of Appetite
People who have food poisoning from E. coli tend to not want to eat foods since they feel so sick and uncomfortable. In addition to feeling sick and losing their appetite due to the E. coli bacteria, people may feel afraid to eat certain foods, like dairy or meat, feeling that they could make the food poisoning worse. It remains important for them to replace lost nutrients and fluids by either drinking a re-hydration supplement or eating soft foods and soups.
Urine Changes
According to the National Institutes of Health, urine changes such as a red color or blood in the urine, or a decreased output of urine tend to indicate a serious medical problem caused by E. coli. While these symptoms rarely occur, anyone who experiences changes in urine color or amount should see a doctor immediately.
