Infections come in all shapes, sizes and levels of severity. Many of them produce mild symptoms and resolve on their own in a matter of days, while others require medical intervention. In the case of salmonella infections, they fall somewhere in the middle.

Salmonella infections often produce moderate gastrointestinal symptoms and can make you feel pretty miserable for a few days. Some people are at a higher risk of developing a more severe infection that requires medical attention.

Read on as our AFC Urgent Care TN team explains more about salmonella below.

What Causes Salmonella Infections?

One of the most common causes of salmonella infections is contaminated food. If you eat undercooked meat, eggs or unwashed produce contaminated with salmonella bacteria, you can contract the infection.

You don’t always have to eat something in order to get infected, however. Drinking contaminated water can also make you sick, as well as petting or interacting with an animal that is carrying salmonella bacteria. This is why it is always encouraged to wash your hands after touching animals at zoos or petting zoos.

Salmonella Infection Symptoms

• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Fever
• Nausea
• Headache

Will a Salmonella Infection Go Away on Its Own?

In the majority of cases, salmonella infections resolve on their own in about a week. Even though you may be feeling all of the above symptoms, there should be light at the end of the tunnel! Rest and take it easy for a few days. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, as diarrhea can easily cause dehydration if you are not careful.

If you are 65 or older or have a child younger than age 5, it is important to keep a closer eye on symptoms. Salmonella infections tend to be worse in these more vulnerable populations and can lead to severe diarrhea or the infection can spread beyond the intestines. Come see us if you are ever concerned about your symptoms.

When a Doctor’s Visit Is Encouraged for Salmonella

• Symptoms last more than a few days
• You experience bloody stools
• You have a high-grade fever of 102 degrees or higher that won’t go away
• You are severely dehydrated

Stomach issues can be really frustrating. Come see us at one of our AFC Urgent Care TN locations for a diagnosis.