Salmonella infection is a common digestive ailment that is often caused by consuming food contaminated with bacteria. The bacteria are typically found in the intestines of animals and humans but can cause illness when consumed or are allowed to overproduce. The Mayo Clinic suggests the infection can cause symptoms that last between four and seven days. Medical treatment isn't usually necessary for this type of food-borne infection unless the individual develops complications.
Function
The salmonella bacteria can be shed through animal or human feces. When the fecal matter is touched, it can be spread to edible foods or beverages. Infants, children and adults can contract the bacteria by eating these consumable items. The bacteria can also be spread directly from hands or other objects that have been contaminated with the bacteria. Once ingested, the bacteria can overproduce, creating the symptoms of infection.
Causes
Some of the most common causes of salmonella include raw animal products. The Mayo Clinic suggests that during butchering the feces from the animals can spread to the consumable parts that will be packaged and distributed to consumers. Beef, poultry and seafood are all capable of contamination. Raw eggs can also be contaminated due to the chicken passing the bacteria when laying the egg. Other non-animal products can become contaminated, such as water, fruits and vegetables, when an individual handles the foods without washing properly after a bowel movement during the salmonella infection. Using the same food preparation surfaces or utensils for animal products and then non-animal products can spread the bacteria as well. The animal products can be cooked thoroughly to kill the bacteria, but the raw fruits or vegetables will still be contaminated.
Symptoms
Most symptoms of salmonella are the same but different strains can cause more significant effects. Some of the most common include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. KidsHealth points out that some individuals experience bloody diarrhea, fever and a headache. These symptoms can last between three and seven days. Complications can last beyond this time frame and it can take longer for the stomach and digestive system to return to normal.
Complications
Dehydration is the most common complication of salmonella. This occurs due to frequent diarrhea and vomiting without proper fluid replacement. Signs of this include sunken eyes, dry mouth, tongue dryness, reduced tear production and reduced urine output.
A more serious complication is bacteremia suggests the Mayo Clinic. Bacteremia is an infection that occurs when salmonella enters the bloodstream and affects various parts of the body like the brain, heart or bones. Symptoms of this complication vary depending on what part of the body is impacted, but individuals will likely have a fever, fatigue and side effects that directly impact the part of the body infected.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that a small number of individuals who have had salmonella infection may develop pain in the joints, irritation of the eyes and painful urination. This is called Reiter's syndrome and can last for months or years.
Considerations
Proper handling of raw animal products and other potential food sources is key in preventing salmonella infection. This includes keeping the products separate from other foods and using separate surfaces and tools for preparation. Hand washing is necessary after every bowel movement and after handling foods. Individuals who have been sick with diarrhea or vomiting should not handle foods for other people. Animal feces, including pet feces, should not be handled and should always be cleaned to prevent accidental ingestion. The Mayo Clinic suggests selecting pasteurized products only to reduce the risk of infection. This includes cookie dough, homemade ice cream and eggnog.
