Salmonella enterocolitis

Alternative Names

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to replace fluids and electrolytes (salt and minerals) lost by diarrhea. Antidiarrheal medications are generally not given because they may prolong the infection. If you have severe symptoms, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

You should drink electrolyte solutions to replace fluids lost by diarrhea -- these are available without a prescription.

Persons with diarrhea who are can't drink anything by mouth due to nausea may need medical attention and intravenous fluids. This is especially true for small children. Fever and aches can be treated with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

If you take diuretics, you may need to stop taking them during the acute episode, when diarrhea is present. Ask your health care provider for instructions.

Changing your diet during diarrhea may help reduce symptoms. This may include avoiding milk products and following a BRAT diet. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These are binding foods that make the stools harder

Infants should continue to breastfeed and receive electrolyte replacement solutions as directed by your health care provider.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The probable outcome is usually good. Symptoms subside in normal individuals in 2-5 days.

Possible Complications

Dehydration from diarrhea, especially in young children and infants, is a dangerous complication. Life-threatening meningitis and septicemia may also result. Food handlers who develop the carrier state can pass the infection along to the people who eat their food.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if blood is noted in the stools, or if there is no improvement after 2-3 days. Also call if any of the following occurs:

• Vomiting or abdominal pain is severe
• Signs of dehydration are present: decreased urine output, sunken eyes, sticky or dry mouth, absent tears when crying
• Unresponsiveness