Salmonella Vs. Ecoli

Salmonella and E. coli are two intestinal diseases that are caused by bacteria. They are very similar in regards to symptoms and method of infection, so it is sometimes difficult to tell one infection from the other.

Infection

• Both bacteria are most commonly spread via contaminated food. The bacteria live in the intestinal tracts of animals and are passed to others through contaminated meat or eggs.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of salmonella and E. coli are very similar and include diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever. Salmonella symptoms will usually begin to appear in about two days, while it takes up to a week for E. coli symptoms to show.

Diagnosis

• Both infections can be diagnosed by testing a sample of your stool to identify the bacteria present.

Treatment

• Excessive diarrhea can cause dehydration, so most treatments attempt to combat that side effect. Antidiarrheals may be recommended, but the best course of action, especially for E. coli, is to drink plenty of fluids and watch for any complications that may occur.

Complications

• Although dehydration is a common concern in regards to these infections, children, older people and those with weak immune systems may experience other health risks. Salmonella complications can include the possibility of the infection entering your bloodstream and reactive arthritis. E. coli complications include low red blood cell count and kidney damage.

Prevention/Solution

• Since the most common way these bacteria are spread is through tainted food and unhygienic conditions, the easiest ways to avoid contracting them are to wash your hands often and cook food thoroughly. The bacteria does not survive the cooking process.