E. Coli
What is E. Coli ?
Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria normally live in the intestines of healthy people and animals. Most types of E. coli are harmless or cause relatively brief diarrhea. But a few strains, such as E. coli O157:H7, can cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting.
You may be exposed to E. coli from contaminated water or food — especially raw vegetables and undercooked ground beef. Healthy adults usually recover from infection with E. coli O157:H7 within a week. Young children and older adults have a greater risk of developing a life-threatening form of kidney failure.
Symptoms
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pains and cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Low fever
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain or burning sensation when you pee
- An urgent need to pee frequently
- Cloudy, foul-smelling pee
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Cause
Only a few strains of E. coli trigger diarrhea. The E. coli O157:H7 strain belongs to a group of E. coli that produces a powerful toxin that damages the lining of the small intestine. This can cause bloody diarrhea. You develop an E. coli infection when you ingest this strain of bacteria. Unlike many other disease-causing bacteria, E. coli can cause an infection even if you ingest only small amounts. Because of this, you can be sickened by E. coli from eating a slightly undercooked hamburger or from swallowing a mouthful of contaminated pool water. Potential sources of exposure include contaminated food or water and person-to-person contact.
Risk Factors
E. coli can affect anyone who is exposed to the bacteria. But some people are more likely to develop problems than others. Risk factors include Age. Young children and older adults are at higher risk of experiencing illness caused by E. coli and more serious complications from the infection. Weakened immune systems. People who have weakened immune systems — from AIDS or from drugs to treat cancer or prevent the rejection of organ transplants — are more likely to become ill from ingesting E. coli. Eating certain types of food. Riskier foods include undercooked hamburger, unpasteurized milk, apple juice or cider, and soft cheeses made from raw milk. Time of year. Though it’s not clear why, the majority of E. coli infections in the U.S. occur from June through September. Decreased stomach acid levels. Stomach acid offers some protection against E. coli. If you take medications to reduce stomach acid, such as esomeprazole (Nexium), pantoprazole (Protonix), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and omeprazole (Prilosec), you may increase your risk of an E. coli infection.
When to see a Doctor
Contact your doctor if your diarrhea is persistent, severe or bloody.