Salmonella infection is usually diagnosed based on signs and symptoms.
Salmonella infection can be detected by testing a stool sample. However, most people have recovered from their symptoms by the time the test results return.
If your health care provider suspects that you have a salmonella infection in your bloodstream, testing a sample of your blood for the bacteria may be needed.
Your treatment for salmonella will depend on factors such as your symptoms, age, and your general health. Most cases of salmonella get better within a week without any treatment. The main concern when you have food poisoning — from salmonella or other infectious organisms — is dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Below are some tips your doctor may recommend to treat your symptoms at home.right up arrow
1. Drink plenty of fluids, such as:
Water
Diluted fruit juice
Sports drinks (which can help replace lost electrolytes)
Clear broths
Pedialyte or similar electrolyte replacement drinks (but speak to your doctor before consuming or administering them)
2. If you’re having trouble keeping anything down, try sipping small amounts of water or sucking on ice chips.
3. Eat saltine crackers or pretzels to help replace electrolytes (sodium is an electrolyte)
4. Eat small meals throughout the day.
5. Do not take anti-diarrheal medicine unless your doctor recommends it; these medications may prolong diarrhea from a salmonella infection.right up arrow
If your doctor is concerned that you may be at risk for severe dehydration, or if you have a high fever or severe abdominal pain, he or she may recommend you go to the hospital for treatment with intravenous fluids and monitoring.
Medication Options
If you have a weakened immune system or if your symptoms are severe and are not getting better, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat your salmonella infection. According to the CDC, antibiotics may be recommended for:
People with severe illness (such as high fever, severe diarrhea, or bacteria that has spread to their bloodstream)
Adults older than 50 with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease
Adults 65 and older
Infants younger than 12 months old
People with compromised or weakened immune systems (such as cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy or people with HIV/AIDS)
Doctors may prescribe antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, and ceftriaxone to treat patients with severe salmonella infections. But worryingly, antibiotic-resistant salmonella has become a problem in recent years. Infections from these “multi-drug-resistant strains” of salmonella can be more severe and result in higher rates of hospitalization.
