Food Poisoning Health Article

Causes and symptoms

The symptoms of food poisoning occur because foodborne bacteria release toxins or poisons as a byproduct of their growth in the body. These toxins (except those from C. botulinum) cause inflammation and swelling of the stomach, small intestine and/or large intestine. The result is abdominal muscle cramping, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and the chance of dehydration. The severity of symptoms depends on the type of bacteria, the amount consumed, and the individual's general health and sensitivity to the bacterial toxin.

Salmonella

According to the CDC, approximately 1.4 million cases of Salmonella contamination occur annually in the US, with about 40,000 being culture-confirmed cases reported to the CDC. Salmonella is found in egg yolks from infected chickens, in raw and undercooked poultry and in other meats, dairy products, fish, shrimp, and many more foods. The CDC estimates that one out of every 50 consumers is exposed to a contaminated egg yolk each year. However, thorough cooking kills the bacteria and makes the food harmless. Salmonella is also found in the feces of such pet reptiles as turtles, lizards, and snakes.

About one out of every 1,000 people get food poisoning from Salmonella. Of these, two-thirds are under age 20, with the majority under age nine. Most cases occur in the warm months between July and October. Salmonella poisoning manifests itself as salmonellosis, mostly caused by Salmonella enteritidis and Salmonella typhimurium. The incidence of salmonellosis has increased dramatically during the last two decades, due in part to the growing popularity of pet iguanas.

Symptoms of food poisoning begin 12–72 hours after eating food, water, or contact with animals contaminated with Salmonella. These include the traditional food poisoning symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. The symptoms generally last two to five days. Dehydration can be a complication in severe cases. People generally recover without antibiotic treatment, although they may feel tired for a week after the active symptoms subside. The CDC estimates that there are over 500 fatalities per year in the US, with 2% of the cases complicated by chronic arthritis.