Salmonellosis is an infection (food poison) caused by Salmonella enterica bacterium. It is the result of eating raw or undercooked food such as meat, poultry, eggs or egg products. Children, elderly and people with weak immune system are at high risk of getting complications with the disease. Food may be contaminated during food processing or food handling without noticing. It is because contaminated foods usually look and smell normal.
Symptoms of salmonellosis include:
Symptoms develop 12 to 72 hours after infection then last for about 4 to 7 days. Most people recover without treatment. However, severe diarrhea may cause dehydration hence it needed medical attention. In few cases, people who are infected with salmonellosis develop reactive arthritis. It is a disease that can last for months or years and can lead to chronic arthritis.
DIAGNOSIS
To diagnose salmonellosis, your doctor may base on the patient’s medical history and physical exam. He or she will also ask about the symptoms you are experiencing. To confirm the diagnosis, a stool culture and blood test may be done.
TREATMENT
Treatment of salmonellosis is basically managing the complications until it passes. One common example of complication is dehydration due to diarrhea. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of liquids especially with that special water who claim by the manufacturer to have electrolytes. Avoid soda and fruit juices for they contain too much sugar and they didn’t much of a help in rehydrating.
Antibiotics are the ones usually prescribed by the doctor unless the infection has spread. Stay with your usual diet so you can consume enough nutrients. However, avoid food that is high in fat and sugar. Do not also take spicy foods, alcohol, and coffee for 2 days after all symptoms have disappeared.
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