Medical Symptoms of Salmonella Food Poisoning

Salmonella poisoning, or salmonellosis, is a bacterial infection that is often associated with consuming raw or undercooked eggs and meat. Because it irritates and inflames the intestinal tract, it often causes a number of gastrointestinal symptoms that develop after the incubation period of eight hours to three days. As it can also develop into typhoid fever, bacteremia and Reiter's Syndrome, you should recognize the potential medical symptoms of salmonella food poisoning.

Nausea - Nausea is one of the common symptoms associated with salmonella. This may or may not be accompanied by vomiting.

Abdominal pain - Because of the intestinal involvement, abdominal pain is generally always associated with this type of poisoning. This type of pain may range from mild cramping to more severe abdominal pain.

Diarrhea - Frequent bouts of diarrhea is considered another common indication of salmonella poisoning and generally lasts from 24 to 72 hours. The intensity of it varies depending on the severity of the problem. When the infection is mild, it may occur several times in a single day with no blood involvement. When the salmonellosis is more severe, however, there may be blood present and an increase in how much diarrhea you are actually having each time you use the bathroom. 

Fever - Fever is often a symptom of salmonella. It can reach 100 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit. This is often accompanied by chills. 

Headaches and Muscle Aches - Headaches are another symptom associated with salmonella poisoning. This can range from mild to severe. In addition to head pain, some may also experience muscle and joint pain, which can linger for seven days or potentially longer. Seek medical attention if joint pain should occur as this may be an indication of a more serious complication.