What are the symptoms of salmonella infection?

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Symptoms of Salmonella Infection

Common Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Salmonella infection, also known as salmonellosis, primarily manifests through gastrointestinal symptoms. The most frequently reported symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramps, which are often accompanied by nausea and vomiting . These symptoms typically appear 12 to 36 hours after exposure to the bacteria and can last from 4 to 7 days. Fever is another common symptom, often presenting alongside gastrointestinal distress .

Systemic Symptoms

In addition to gastrointestinal symptoms, salmonellosis can also cause systemic symptoms such as fever and headache . In some cases, the infection can lead to more severe systemic conditions, including typhoid fever, which is characterized by prolonged fever, fatigue, and temperature fluctuations. Myalgia, or muscle pain, is also reported in some cases.

Severe and Complicated Cases

While most individuals recover from salmonellosis without medical intervention, certain populations, such as the elderly, infants, and immunocompromised individuals, are at higher risk for severe illness . Complications can include bacteremia, where the bacteria enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to infections in other parts of the body such as the aorta, endocardium, bones, and meninges. Reactive arthritis, characterized by joint pain and inflammation, has also been observed following Salmonella infection.

Rare and Specific Symptoms

In rare cases, Salmonella infection can lead to specific symptoms such as conjunctivitis, which involves redness and irritation of the eyes. Additionally, some serotypes of Salmonella, such as Salmonella typhi, can cause unique symptoms like constipation instead of diarrhea, and mild liver involvement has been reported in a subset of patients.

Conclusion

Salmonella infection presents a wide range of symptoms, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal system but also capable of causing systemic and severe complications. Common symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever, while severe cases can lead to bacteremia and reactive arthritis. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, especially in vulnerable populations.