Salmonella Infections may produce specific localized, enteric fevers and gastrointestinal infections. Approx. 2,200 salmonella types are known, including the type which results in typhoid fever. Common sources of Salmonella include infected egg products, raw milk, poultry, and meat. Other sources may include contaminated marijuana, carmine red dye and infected pet reptiles.

In the United States, salmonella is a major public health concern and an ongoing problem. A salmonella infection can result in an enteric fever or gastrointestinal upset; in some cases, affecting a certain site. Some affected individuals experience no symptoms, but they are often carriers.

Enteric fever happens when salmonella organism is enters the bloodstream. The fever results in the prostration (severe exhaustion). Protopype of this desease is typhoid fever. A certain site can be infected by salmonella. For instance, the bacteria may lodge and multiply in the person’s digestive tract, muscles, blood vessels, urinary tract, heart valves, bones, spinal cord or brain, lungs or other internal organs.

Sometimes, a tumor can get infected, progressing an abscess that provides a cause for prolonged blood infections. The carrier does not experience symptoms, but continues to shed bacteria in his or her stool and it may lasti for one or more years in fewer than 1% of individuals. Gastrointestinal upset usually starts one to two days after exposure to the salmonella infection. Symptoms start with crampy abdominal pain and nausea, followed by fever, diarrhea, and, in some cases, vomiting. Generally, diarrhea is watery; although an individual can produce semisolid, pasty stool. Generally, gastrointestinal upset is mild and continues for one to four days, but it can last longer. Diagnosis is confirmed by culturing rectal swab or stool samples from infected people.

Gastrointestinal upset treatment consists of bland diet and fluids. People with HIV, those in nursing homes, or infants are typically given antibiotics, because they are at great complication risk from the condition. In carriers who do not experience symptoms,  salmonella infection usually resolvies on its own; antibiotics therapy is rarely required. When antibiotic are required, Ciprofloxacin, Amoxicillin, or Ampicillin usually are effective. Generally, antibiotics are used for three to five days, but individuals with HIV usually need longer treatment to prevent relapse. In salmonella infection of the blood, antibiotics should be taken for four to six weeks. Any abscesses are cured with surgical draining and antibiotics are taken for four weeks. Individuals with infected heart valves, blood vessels, or other sites, usually need surgery and longer treatment with the appropriate antibiotics.

This entry was filed under Diseases and Conditions.

Tags: blood infections, enteric fever, gastrointestinal infections, gastrointestinal upset, public health concern, salmonella infection symptoms, salmonella infections