Enterocolitis is an infection caused by Salmonella bacteria, often from contaminated food or water. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea. Diagnosis is confirmed through physical examination and tests. Treatment involves replacing fluids and electrolytes, and in severe cases, antibiotics. Complications include dehydration, septicemia, and meningitis.
Enterocolitis, also known as Salmonella enterocolitis, is an infection of the small intestine resulting from exposure to Salmonella bacteria. Individuals who become infected can experience symptoms in as little as eight hours after exposure and remain symptomatic for up to five days. Severe cases of infection can lead to life-threatening conditions, including blood poisoning.
A common form of food poisoning, enterocolitis generally results from ingesting salmonella-contaminated food and water. Bacteria thrive in unsanitary conditions, especially around food preparation and storage. There are additional sources and situations that contribute to the presence of Salmonella bacteria, allowing it to thrive.
Foods like shellfish and poultry that aren’t prepared properly are just one method of exposure to bacteria. Individuals in households with family members who have recently been infected with salmonella or who have recently recovered from gastroenteritis may be at increased risk of exposure to the bacteria. Some popular reptile pets, such as turtles and lizards, are common carriers of the Salmonella bacteria, so hand washing should occur before and after handling these types of pets.
Infected individuals can develop a variety of symptoms after exposure. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting and fever. Individuals may also experience abdominal pain and cramping, chills, and diarrhea. Although the infection can last up to two weeks, individuals are usually symptomatic for up to five days before showing signs of improvement.
A diagnosis of enterocolitis is usually confirmed through a physical examination and administration of one or more tests. During a physical exam, the treating physician may check for signs of tenderness or a rash on the individual’s abdomen. Tests done to confirm enterocolitis may include Widal’s test and a stool culture. The Widal test is a blood test that measures the level of specific antibodies, called agglutinins, to ascertain the presence of infection. A stool culture involves collecting fecal material which is sent to a laboratory for testing.
Treatment for enterocolitis involves replacing electrolytes and fluids that have been depleted due to diarrhea. Anti-diarrheal medications and electrolyte replenishment solutions are given to restore balance to the individual’s system. In cases where symptoms have increased in severity, an antibiotic regimen may be prescribed. A change in diet is often recommended to help with symptom relief. To promote stool bulk, individuals may be advised to avoid products such as milk, certain fruits, and grains until symptoms subside.
The most common complication associated with enterocolitis is dehydration, which can become life-threatening if left untreated. It is essential that individuals continue to consume fluids while symptomatic. Blood poisoning, known as septicemia, is a life-threatening condition that can result from severe cases of enterocolitis. Additionally, the bacterial infection can also cause swelling and irritation of the membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain, known as meningitis.
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