Escherichia coli
(
E. coli) infection is caused by a bacteria. It is the leading cause of bloody diarrhea. This type of infection may need medical attention. Contact your doctor if you think you may have it.
This
infection is caused by some types of the
E. coli
bacterium. Most
E. coli
infections are caused by:
- Eating undercooked beef, especially ground beef
- Drinking contaminated water
- Drinking unpasteurized milk
- Working with cattle
Factors that increase your chance of developing
E. coli
infection include:
- Age: children and older people
- People with another illness
- Working with cattle
- Living in northern states
Symptoms of E. coli infection include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your waste material may be tested. This can be done with a stool culture.
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include:
Most people will get better in 5-10 days. They rarely need a specific treatment. Avoid medicine that stops diarrhea. Drink plenty of water and fluids. Fluids through an IV line may be needed in cases of severe
dehydration.
HUS is a life-threatening condition. It occurs in some people with
E. coli
infection. HUS may need to be treated with
blood transfusions
and
kidney dialysis. Symptoms may include:
- Pale complexion, tiredness, and irritability
- Small, unexplained bruises, or bleeding from the nose or mouth—caused by problems in the body’s clotting mechanism
If you are diagnosed with an
E. coli
infection, follow your doctor's
instructions
.
To help prevent
E. coli
infection:
- Cook all ground beef and hamburger thoroughly.
- Avoid eating undercooked hamburger or other ground beef.
- Keep raw meats separate from ready-to-eat foods.
- Wash hands, counters, and utensils with hot soapy water after they are exposed to raw meat.
- Drink only pasteurized milk, juice, and cider.
- Wash fruits and vegetables under running water.
- Drink municipal water that has been treated with a disinfectant.
- Wash hands after bowel movements and after changing soiled diapers.
Last reviewed September 2012 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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