|  | Conditions Treatments | Illness

Salmonella Symptom Information

Salmonella infection is a bacterial disease that's usually caused by consuming contaminated food or water. There are more than 2,000 types of salmonella bacteria, but only about a dozen of these affect people. Salmonella complications can range from diarrhea to typhoid fever.

  1. Common Symptoms

    • Most types of salmonella bacteria cause gastroenteritis. Signs of salmonella gastroenteritis include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle pain, fever, chills, headache and bloody stools.

    Incubation Period

    • Salmonella symptoms from gastroenteritis usually develop within 12 to 72 hours after infection.

    Long-Term Effects

    • It can take several months for bowel movements to normalize after the diarrhea. Some people may also develop a condition called Reiter's Syndrome that can last for months to years. Symptoms of Reiter's syndrome include joint pain, eye irritation and painful urination.

    Considerations

    • Other salmonella problems include dehydration caused by persistent diarrhea. People with severe dehydration and diarrhea may need hospitalization.

    Warning

    • A few types of salmonella bacteria cause typhoid fever. Symptoms of typhoid fever can include cough, fever and mental confusion. Pink spots may appear on the chest, and the heartbeat may slow. The liver and spleen can enlarge and there may be diarrhea or constipation.

Illness - Related Articles