Symptoms of Escherichia coli infection and how to treat

Escherichia coli , also called E. coli , is a bacterium naturally found in people's intestines without symptoms being noticed, however when present in large quantities or when the person is infected with a different type of E. coli , it is possible intestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea, for example.

Although intestinal infections by Escherichia coli are common, this bacterium also causes urinary infections, which can be perceived through pain or burning when urinating and a stronger smell of pee, being more frequent in women.

Symptoms of Escherichia coli infection

Symptoms of E. coli infection appear about 3 to 4 days after contact with the bacteria through the consumption of contaminated food and water or due to the arrival of the bacteria in the urinary tract due to the proximity between the anus and the vagina, in this case of the women. Thus, the symptoms of infection vary according to the affected site:

Intestinal infection by E. coli

The symptoms of intestinal infection by E. coli are the same as a gastroenteritis caused by viruses, for example, the main symptoms being:

Constant diarrhea; Bloody stools; Frequent abdominal pain or cramps; Nausea and vomiting; General malaise and tiredness; Fever below 38ºC; Loss of appetite.

If the symptoms do not disappear after 5 to 7 days, it is important to go to the doctor for tests to identify the bacteria. If E. coli infection is confirmed, the doctor must indicate the use of antibiotics, as well as rest, light food and plenty of fluids.

E. coli urinary infection

Urinary infection caused by E. coli is more common in women due to the proximity of the anus to the vagina, making it easier for bacteria to transmit from one place to another. To prevent it, women should drink plenty of water, avoid the constant use of douches in the vaginal area and clean this area from the vagina to the anus.

To find out if there is a possibility of having Escherichia coli urinary tract infection, select the symptoms in the following test:

1. Pain or burning sensation when urinating Yes No
2. Frequent and sudden urge to urinate in small quantities Yes No
3. Feeling of not being able to empty your bladder Yes No
4. Feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the bladder area Yes No
5. Cloudy or bloody urine Yes No
6. Persistent low fever (between 37.5º and 38º) Yes No

The diagnosis of urinary infection by Escherichia coli is made by the doctor according to the symptoms presented by the person and the result of the type 1 urine test and urine culture, which indicate whether there is an infection and what is the best antibiotic to treat.

How the treatment is done

The treatment of Escherichia coli infection is done according to the type of infection, the person's age and symptoms presented, with rest and the use of antibiotics, such as Levofloxacin, Gentamicin, Ampicillin and Cephalosporin, for example, being normally indicated by the doctor. 8 to 10 days or according to the doctor's recommendation.

In the case of E. coli causing severe diarrhea with blood in the stool, it may also be indicated to use serum to prevent dehydration. In addition, depending on the severity of the symptoms, the doctor may recommend medications that relieve pain and discomfort, such as Paracetamol, for example.

It is important that during the treatment of Escherichia coli infection, the person has a light diet, giving preference to the consumption of fruits and vegetables, in addition to drinking plenty of fluids to help eliminate the bacteria, in the case of urinary infection, and prevent dehydration in the case of intestinal infection.

Learn more about the treatment for E. coli.