Although the Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria that live in your intestines are generally harmless, some types can lead to infections.
The symptoms of an E. coli infection include bloody diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal cramps.
They generally begin a few days after you ingest the bacteria in contaminated food or water.
You can also get this condition from coming into contact with fecal matter from an infected person.
How Can It Hurt You?
E. coli infections usually run their course in about a week, but they can lead to a serious kidney problem in some cases. This potentially life-threatening condition, known as hemolytic uremic syndrome, can result in acute or chronic kidney failure, heart problems, a coma, or a stroke or even death. People who have a higher chance of developing this condition include children who are younger than five, adults who are over 60 years old, and people with impaired immune systems (including those who are pregnant, have AIDS, or are engaged in chemotherapy treatment).
What Are the Treatments for It?
E. coli infections rarely require treatment. In adults who are otherwise healthy, the infection typically clears on its own. Taking sips of water or other clear liquids frequently is important in order to avoid becoming dehydrated. Getting plenty of rest is also recommended to deal with the fatigue associated with this illness. Slowly add foods that are low in fiber, such as rice or toast, to your diet when your appetite begins to return.
Eating foods that are high in fiber too early might lead to more severe symptoms. You should also avoid eating dairy products and fatty foods while you recover. Antibiotics may be helpful against dissemination of the bacteria through the body, but antibiotics won’t neutralize the toxin that the bacteria produce. Always check with your doctor about taking antibiotics. Young children, the elderly and other people who have a severe E. coli infection might require dialysis or blood transfusions.
How Can You Prevent It at Home?
Be careful in your kitchen. If you’re cooking meat, make sure it’s heated up to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. You shouldn’t see any pink inside of it. Wash any utensils that have touched raw meat or produce with soap and hot water. Also wash or wipe down your cutting board and countertops. Rinse leafy greens and other produce to get rid of E. coli that might be lingering on the surface. Only drink milk and juice that has been pasteurized. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after you’ve handled raw produce or meat. You should also do this after using the bathroom or changing a diaper.
How Can You Prevent It When Traveling?
If possible, bring bottled water with you, especially if you’re going to be in a country that doesn’t have clean drinking water. Keep in mind that E. coli and other harmful bacteria can also be present in ice cubes. Don’t eat any fresh vegetables or fruits unless they have a skin or peel that you can remove, such as bananas. Wash your hands frequently, especially after using a bathroom.
Although an E. coli infection might only prove to be an unpleasant inconvenience for about a week, it’s still important to take steps toward avoiding it in the first place. Since this illness is associated with life-threatening complications in some cases, make sure you do everything you can to prevent coming into contact with this harmful bacteria.
Laura Katz is a freelance blogger who writes about medical concerns. If you are interested in treating sick people, she recommends looking into pharm.d. programs to become a pharmacist.
