E. coli is a type of bacteria that normally thrives in the intestines of both humans and animals. Nevertheless, certain strains of the bacteria can cause intestinal infection. The typical symptoms of intestinal infection include abdominal pain, diarrhea and fever. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration or even kidney failure. Individuals who have a weakened immune system, the elderly and young children are at high risk for developing these complications.
Most cases of intestinal infections are caused by contaminated water or food. Good hygienic practices and proper preparation of food can drastically minimize the risk of developing an intestinal infection. Most cases can be treated at home and the symptoms typically resolved in a few days to a week.
What are the symptoms of E. coli intestinal infection?
The symptoms start between 1-5 days after being infected with the E. coli and can last for a few days to more than a week.
- Abdominal cramping
- Gas
- Severe watery diarrhea
- Nausea and loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Vomiting (in rare cases)
For a severe case of E. coli infection, the following symptoms will manifest:
- Blood-streaked urine
- Pale skin
- Diminished urine output
- Bruising
- Dehydration
If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to consult a doctor right away.
What are the causes of E. coli infection?
Normally, humans and animals have some E. coli present in the intestines but some strains can cause an infection. There are various ways in which the bacteria can enter the body.
Incorrect handling of food
Whether food is prepared in a restaurant or at home, incorrect handling and preparation can cause contamination. The common causes of food poisoning include:
- Using utensils, serving dishes and cutting boards that are not clean
- Unable to wash hands properly before preparation and eating food
- Eating dairy products or foods with mayonnaise that has been left out too long
- Eating foods not cooked in the right temperature
- Drinking milk that is unpasteurized
- Eating raw seafood products
- Eating raw produce that is not properly cleaned
Contaminated water
Always remember that poor sanitation can lead to contaminated water. Drinking contaminated water or swimming in it can cause the intestinal infection.
Processing of food
It is a known fact that during the slaughter process, meat and poultry products can pick up bacteria from the intestines of animals.
Animals
Individuals who work with animals particularly goats, cows and sheep are at risk for infection. Those who touch animals or works in an environment with animals must wash hands regularly.
Person to person contact
Take note that E. coli can spread if an infected individual is not able to wash his/her hands after a bowel movement. The bacteria can spread once the individual touches food or another individual.
Treatment for E. coli intestinal infection
In most cases of intestinal infections, simple first aid care can be applied. By enrolling in a first aid class, you can learn the proper hygienic measures and simple steps to perform on similar cases. Provide the individual with plenty of fluids to drink. Encourage the individual to rest while monitoring the symptoms.
If the individual has fever or blood-streaked diarrhea, the doctor might recommend over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications. In case dehydration is the concern, it might require hospitalization and administration of intravenous fluids. Within a week up to 10 days, most individuals show improvement and followed by full recovery.