When your stomach’s upset, it can ruin any plans you have for the immediate future. All you want to do is stay home, rest, and make sure you’re close to a bathroom. Typically, an upset stomach takes care of itself in a day or so and you’re back to your usual routine.
However, E. coli poisoning can be a little different. Even if the symptoms are mild, it can still take a while to recover. If you’re trying to figure out if you have a bacterial infection, the common causes of E. coli poisoning can help. We’re looking at what causes the infection, typical symptoms, and treatment options.
You can pick up E. coli bacteria in polluted ground and surface water. Even the soil can contain E. coli bacteria. This is why you’ve probably been told not to drink water out of a stream or puddle. The water may contain E. coli bacteria.
However, cases of E. coli from contaminated water are rare. So are cases caused by soil. Most cases of E. coli infections are caused by foods you may eat every day, including:
Ground Beef: A common cause of E. coli infections is tainted ground beef. The bacteria usually gets into the meat at the processing plant. The bacteria is present in the intestines of herd animals and can get into the meat. Since ground beef is made from different animals and not a single cow, this can increase the chances of the bacteria spreading to the ground beef.
Fresh Produce: Leafy veggies like lettuce and spinach are especially susceptible to E. coli bacteria. The leaves can hold the bacteria until it reaches your plate. If you’re not washing your fresh produce thoroughly before eating, you’re increasing your risk of an infection. How does the bacteria end up on your fresh produce? The answer is usually from runoff from cattle herds. If water is running from the animal pens to the agricultural fields, E. coli is usually present.
Unpasteurized Milk: There is a bit of a trend going on concerning unpasteurized dairy products. Some consumers believe raw dairy products are better for their health than pasteurized ones. This is a myth and it can also be dangerous for your health. The pasteurization process involves heating dairy products to a specific temperature to kill any harmful bacteria. When this step is skipped, illnesses like E. coli can be common.
Did you know you can even come down with an E. coli infection through physical contact like shaking someone’s hand? This isn’t saying you should stop any type of physical contact.
Instead, this only emphasizes the importance of good hygiene. This includes frequently washing your hands, especially after touching any animals, and always before you eat.
Potential Health Complications
Source: Unsplash
Thankfully, most people who’re exposed to E. coli bacteria recover in a week or so. They may experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and feeling constantly exhausted. After about seven days or so, you may still feel a little weak but you’re back to your normal daily routine.
Unfortunately, not everyone makes a relatively quick recovery from an E. coli infection. Some individuals experience symptoms requiring hospitalization. They may also develop a potentially life-threatening condition known as hemolytic uremic syndrome. This is a type of kidney failure that can be fatal. If it’s not fatal, sufferers may require a lifetime of medical care.
Treating an E. Coli Infection
Source: Unsplash
There really isn’t an instant cure for a bacterial infection like E. coli. Your physician will probably recommend plenty of rest. This shouldn’t be a problem since the infection tends to zap your strength. Pretty much all you want to do is stay home and rest.
You should also plan on drinking plenty of fluids. This doesn’t mean chugging a 2 liter of soda. Stick with water and other hydrating fluids. Even some sports drinks are a better option than a soda. Sports drinks tend to contain electrolytes that help prevent dehydration.
If your symptoms include diarrhea, an over-the-counter remedy is usually all you need. Anti-nausea medications can help if your symptoms include nausea and/or vomiting.
You may be wondering about antibiotics. Surprisingly, this isn’t a great treatment option. Antibiotics are ineffective at killing the bacteria and may even worsen your existing symptoms. Antibiotics can even increase your risk of developing complications.
Staying Healthy
Source: Unsplash
You may not be able to avoid all E. coli infections but you can take some steps to reduce your risk. Don’t consume unpasteurized dairy products, wash all fresh produce, and pay attention to any ground beef recalls. Also, washing your hands thoroughly is a great way to reduce your risk.
Disclaimer:
This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.
