Salmonella

by Angel Lynn Diamond | More from this Blogger

13 May 2009 05:35 PM

Contracting salmonella infection is not soon forgotten. Salmonella is a bacteria that some animals are known to carry. Salmonella can be present in numerous foods, as well as through other sources. You will find the salmonella bacteria in water, raw meat, and eggs. It is also noted in the feces of animals, soil, and common kitchen areas, such as countertops. This bacterium will affect your intestines causing a fever, vomiting, cramping, headache, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Symptoms will generally appear within 72 hours. The salmonella bacteria will usually run its course and resolving without any further medical treatment. If a severe case is noted a person can become dehydrated and require IV fluids.

To help minimize contraction of the salmonella infection it is advisable to cook foods well, particularly eggs and meat. It is also not a good idea to harbor reptiles as a family pet in your home as they carry this bacterium.

It is possible to get a salmonella infection without becoming sick. Most humans contract a particular type of infection known as nontyphoidal salmonella. This type is present in reptiles, chickens, and cows. There is also a more rare form of this bacterium that only people carry.

The diagnosis of salmonella is confirmed by a stool specimen. People who are most likely to contract salmonella are the very young, the elderly, and/or persons in a weakened condition. Rarely treated in a healthy person, salmonella in the health compromised person would be treated as a precaution and to avoid spreading.

The best prevention besides thoroughly cooking your food is proper handwashing. If you are a victim of salmonella or suspicion that you are it is important to go to your doctor with a stool specimen. This diagnosis to confirm this bacterium can help others by locating the source of the infection and put an end to it. You can treat this bacterium with acetaminophen to lower fever and relieve your discomfort. Because of the diarrhea and vomiting a person is very likely to become dehydrated. Drinking a great deal of fluids will help to restore your body to its prior condition and replace the lost fluid.

Angel Lynn writes in weight loss, single parenting, and health.

Learn more about Angel Lynn Diamond

I am a mom to my precious one and only, a nurse in a heartwarming adult living facility, and a freelance writer.

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