Salmonella Symptoms
Salmonella symptoms are very similar to those found in a common stomach virus. In fact, some people may decide that they simply have “stomach flu” when they actually have food poisoning. While food poisoning is usually mild, it can become severe and even life threatening.
Here are some of the common symptoms of the salmonella infection:
* Fever
* Abdominal cramps
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Headache
While a case of the stomach flu usually only lasts a couple of days, salmonella poisoning can last 7 days or even longer. Additional symptoms may include muscle and joint pain. Fever is usually in the 100 – 102 degree Fahrenheit range, and diarrhea is a more common symptom than vomiting.
Salmonella food poisoning ranks second in the United States as one of the most common causes of foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria. The true reach of this infection is not known, because the majority of cases go unreported.
The time between when you may have become infected and salmonella symptoms is approximately 8 to 48 hours. If you think you have been infected, a doctor can perform tests such as a stool culture, and test for specific antibodies as well.
Salmonella symptoms in infants, the elderly, pregnant women and individuals with a compromised immune system should not be taken lightly, as these people are more at risk for developing serious complications. If you or a loved one experience salmonella symptoms, see your doctor at once. Diarrhea that is heavy in volume, or contains blood or mucus may be a sign of more serious infection.
This type of food poisoning often occurs by eating tainted food in public places, or by eating food that you purchased that contains the bacteria. In such cases, if you do in fact learn that you have salmonella food poisoning, you should contact an attorney. Those responsible for the unsanitary preparation of foods or the manufacturing of it should be held accountable for your medical costs. Lost wages may also be compensated in many instances.
If you become ill and think you have a simple stomach virus, consider the foods you have eaten in the last day or two. You may in fact be experiencing salmonella symptoms, and you do not want to take risks, especially if you are in one of the high risk groups.
