"Salmonella Outbreak tied to Onions: Know the Symptoms and When to Get Treatment. — Premier"

The recent outbreak of Salmonella tied to onions has made over 650 people sick in 37 states. The FDA has announced recalls on some major onion farms to curtail infections. But what are the symptoms of Salmonella, and when should you visit your doctor?

Salmonella poisoning can cause salmonellosis, a condition with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. In most cases, salmonellosis is self-limiting, and the person recovers without treatment. Most people with salmonellosis feel better 1 to 3 days after the initial infection; however, some may be ill for up to a week or more.

Salmonellosis symptoms usually start 12 to 72 hours after exposure, but they can occur as soon as eight hours after exposure or as late as five days later.

The symptoms of salmonella poisoning include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Chills
• Headache

Home Treatment

If you have salmonella poisoning, the first thing to do is rest and drink plenty of fluids. If you get pain or cramping in your stomach or side, take an over-the-counter pain reliever like Tylenol or Advil (ibuprofen).

If you have diarrhea, drink lots of clear liquids that can be absorbed by your body easily. Try water mixed with a bit of sugar and salt (called "oral rehydration solution"), fruit juices without pulp such as apple juice, sports drinks such as Gatorade, tea, broth made from bouillon, or powdered chicken broth mix.

When to Visit Premier

The most severe cases usually occur in young children, adults over 50, and people with impaired immune systems. If you are an otherwise healthy adult under the age of 50 who comes down with Salmonella, rest assured that the effects of the illness will most likely fade in a few days, especially with proper rest and hydration.

The key is knowing when to seek medical care. If you have persistent diarrhea for more than two days, if you have severe abdominal cramps, or if you have a high fever, contact your primary care physicians or visit your local urgent care. These symptoms may be signs of dehydration or a secondary infection. Typically, treatment would include antibiotic therapy or even IV hydration if excessive diarrhea and vomiting lead to dehydration.

For now, it's safest to stay away from onions entirely until the FDA says otherwise. If you develop any symptoms related to Salmonella exposure, stay hydrated, rest, and if your condition worsens be sure to visit Premier at any time for medical care.