It can be frustrating to get sick, no matter what you are suffering from. But it can be especially frustrating to start feeling ill after going out for a fun dinner with friends or making a delicious meal at home.

If your stomach starts to hurt and you are experiencing other gastrointestinal symptoms, you may start to wonder if you came down with food poisoning.

Food poisoning can occur due to many different kinds of harmful bacteria or pathogens. Today we are focusing on salmonella infections, so read on as our AFC Urgent Care Athens, TN team explains more below.

Where Does Salmonella Come From?

Salmonella is actually the name of the bacteria that can make you sick. This bacteria often lives in animal feces or in infected animals. You can contract a salmonella infection by consuming meat that was undercooked or by eating unwashed fruits or vegetables. You can also contract it by petting or interacting with animals infected with the bacteria.

This is why personal hygiene and proper kitchen preparation methods are important. Wash your hands after petting any animal and definitely before starting any sort of food preparation. In the kitchen, ensure that all of your meats are cooked to the proper temperature to kill off the bacteria.

Common Symptoms to Expect

• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Fever
• Nausea
• Headache

Is a Salmonella Infection Serious?

Thankfully, the vast majority of people will overcome a salmonella infection on their own in a few days. That doesn’t mean you won’t feel the effects of your symptoms, however! You may feel pretty miserable for a couple of days while your body works hard to overcome the infection. While you wait, stay hydrated and rest as often as possible.

If you are experiencing significant pain or start finding blood in your vomit or stool, it is time to be seen by a medical professional. Certain populations like infants or older adults can experience a more severe infection or become severely dehydrated, so sometimes a little extra support is needed during the recovery time.

Symptoms That Warrant a Doctor’s 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 Athens, TN for a diagnosis.