Salmonella, a bacteria common in human and animal feces, can cause diarrhea in humans when ingested. Over 2,300 strains exist, but two varieties, Salmonella enteritidis and Salmonella typhimurium, account for half of all human infections. Salmonella is undetectable and often contracted through contaminated foods or touching the mouth after coming into contact with infected animals. Fatalities from salmonella infection do occur, but medical intervention can treat it. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
Fever
Fever in the human body generally indicates the presence of an infection, including salmonella. Fevers become dangerous in adults when internal body temperate reaches 103 degrees Fahrenheit; however, even temperatures slightly elevated above the norm of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit can be dangerous. Fevers can induce seizures in small children. A physician prescribes antibiotics to treat salmonella infection, but occasionally high fevers necessitate ice baths to keep it from harming internal organs.
Diarrhea
Infection by the salmonella bacteria often causes diarrhea, which occurs when the liquid in ingested foods is not adequately absorbed by the colon. The frequent, loose, watery stools of this condition usually last a few days, but with salmonella infection, untreated infection may mean a prolonged period of diarrhea occurrence. Dehydration is common with bouts of diarrhea, according to The Mayo Clinic. Physicians recommend drinking water, juice and broth to combat dehydration. Treatment for salmonella infection will help clear up diarrhea.
Abdominal Cramps
Abdominal cramps, abrupt, involuntary muscle contractions or spasms resulting in stabbing pains, can indicate a variety of maladies, including appendicitis, gallstones and menstrual cramps. However, when abdominal cramps combine with fever and vomiting, it can indicate the presence of food poisoning, such as salmonella infection. Abdominal cramps will persist until medical treatment for salmonella infection is sought.
