Media reports often flood the airwaves warning of food poisonings related to E. coli outbreaks. But many people may not know much about this particular microorganism. Escherichia coli are a type of bacteria found in the intestines of humans and other mammals. Though these organisms are part of the natural balance of gut flora, ingesting food that has been contaminated with E. coli can lead to serious health issues and even death. Symptoms generally show up 24 hours to four days after exposure, with cases lasting from one to three days, according to Medline Plus. If you are aware of the warning signs of an E.coli infection, you should be able to act quickly to access the medical attention you need.
Abdominal Cramping
Stomach tenderness or painful abdominal cramping may be a precursor to other later symptoms as the intestines become inflamed due to the growing infection. E. coli will multiply rapidly and attach to cells in the walls of the afflicted individual's intestine, subsequently releasing elevated concentrations of dangerous bacterial toxins into the body. This inflammation can lead to strong stomach pains that may radiate throughout the entire region of the gut.
Nausea and Vomiting
Severe nausea and vomiting are common symptoms associated with E. coli. Vomiting is one of the body's defense mechanisms designed to try to eliminate the dangerous toxins the bacteria has introduced to one's system. These symptoms have the potential to last multiple days. Dry heaving may also continue once the stomach's contents have been emptied after vomiting.
Diarrhea
Intense diarrhea, very often accompanied by visible blood, is a serious symptom resulting from E. coli-related food poisoning. The diarrhea may be quite watery in infections of this nature, and it can last for a number of days. Severe diarrhea can leave the body dangerously dehydrated due to the loss of critical fluids, so careful monitoring of this particular symptom is critical. Always ensure proper hydration any time diarrhea is present, and seek immediate medical attention if it becomes severe.
Elevated Fever
E. coli will not always feature an elevated fever as a physical indicator of infection, despite some of the other related symptoms that are involved. The release of enterotoxins by the E. coli bacteria, however, can potentially lead to a high fever as the immune system attempts to battle the infection. If your body temperature approaches 102 or 103 degrees F, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Anemia
Anemia refers to the reduction of red blood cells. It can manifest in the form of general fatigue, lethargy or weakness. A particular strain of E. coli, identified as O157:H7, is known to potentially result in Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome (or HUS), which can lead to anemia, abnormal bleeding and a life-threatening form of kidney failure. Children and the elderly are especially susceptible to this syndrome if infected with the O157:H7 strain of E. coli.
