The Mayo Clinic defines salmonella infection as a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. The bacteria resides within the intestines and is found in fecal matter. Animal fecal matter is the primary source of human salmonella poisoning. Salmonella poisoning, or salmonellosis, is contracted through the consumption of edible products containing feces. Cooking foods thoroughly, washing your hands after handling animals or animal products, and washing your hands after using the bathroom are all ways to prevent the spread of salmonella bacteria. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 40,000 cases of salmonellosis are reported each year in the United States. The CDC points out that without proper treatment, salmonella infection can lead to death in high-risk individuals like infants, the elderly, and individuals with a weakened immune system.
Gastroenteritis
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are more than 2,000 varieties of salmonella bacteria. They point out that illness in people is caused bay only 12 of those varieties. The most common symptom of salmonellosis is gastroenteritis. The most common symptom of gastroenteritis is sever diarrhea. Individuals who have consumed salmonella will begin to exhibit symptoms between a few hours and two days. Other signs of gastroenteritis include: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, chills, muscle pains, headache and blood in the stool. As a result of gastroenteritis, an individual is at risk of becoming dehydrated.
Typhoid Fever
Typhoid fever is a sign of salmonella poisoning. It is typically found in people who have traveled into a country where the disease is more common, according to the Mayo Clinic. This strain presents symptoms between five and 21 days after infection. Symptoms of Typhoid fever include diarrhea or constipation, a high fever, enlarged liver or spleen, slowed heart rate, pink spots on the chest that protrude slightly, coughing and mental confusion.
Bacteremia
An infection of the blood with salmonella is called bacteremia, according to the Mayo Clinic. The blood can further infect the body. Meningitis can result if the tissues of the brain and spinal cord are infected. If salmonella bacteria travel to the lining of the heart or the valves, endocarditis may result. Bones and bone marrow infected with salmonella can develop osteomyelitis. KidsHealth.org indicates other health difficulties from salmonella infection may arise, including pneumonia.
Reactive Arthritis
The Mayo Clinic indicates that individuals who have had salmonella have a higher likelihood of developing reactive arthritis. Symptoms of this include eye irritation, painful urination, and painful joints. According to the CDC, this is also called Reiter's syndrome and it can last for months or years or develop into chronic arthritis.
