How Do I Know If I Have Salmonella?

When you get sick, it can be hard to know what you are suffering from on your own. Many different illnesses share symptoms, especially GI conditions or infections. If you start experiencing a fever, diarrhea and stomach cramps a few days after eating some questionable food, it may be salmonella.

Salmonella is a type of infection that you can contract after coming into contact with salmonella bacteria, and it can make you feel pretty sick for a few days.

Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains what it feels like to have a salmonella infection, so read on to learn more.

How Did I Contract Salmonella?

The first thing we will ask you is to think back on what you did or what you ate in the previous few days. This is because the salmonella bacteria lives in contaminated food and on animals. If you ate undercooked meat or eggs or never wash your produce before eating it, your chances of your illness being salmonella go up.

In addition, you can contract salmonella through infected animals. Petting your dog and then not washing your hands or kissing his soft fuzzy head can introduce the bacteria to your body. This is why hand hygiene and proper food preparation is so important!

Salmonella Symptoms That Are Common

  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Fever
  • Nausea
  • Headache

Will I Feel Sick for a Long Time With Salmonella?

Most people start to experience symptoms of salmonella eight to 72 hours after the initial exposure. Your stomach will probably hurt, your GI symptoms will ramp up and you will probably feel pretty run down for a few days. However, the majority of sufferers will recover in a few days without further treatment.

In the meantime, lie low and stay home while you recover. Eat bland foods that agree with your stomach, and get as much rest as you can. You also need to ensure that you avoid dehydration! Diarrhea can cause dehydration quickly, so it is important to continually sip on water while you are sick.

Symptoms That Should Prompt an AFC Visit

  • Symptoms lasting more than a few days
  • Bloody stools
  • A high-grade fever of 102 degrees or higher that won’t go away
  • Severe dehydration

Stomach issues can be really frustrating. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hixson for a diagnosis.