What Are the Symptoms and Effects of E. Coli Food Poisoning?

 Posted on February 09, 2021 in E. Coli

There are a wide variety of foodborne illnesses that affect people in the United States. Typically, food poisoning occurs because harmful bacteria, viruses, or toxins are present in foods that are made available to consumers, including items sold at grocery stores, dishes served at restaurants, and food products sold or provided at other locations. E. coli is one of the most common foodborne pathogens. It is estimated that 265,000 people in the U.S. are infected with this bacteria every year, and these infections result in 3,600 hospitalizations and 30 deaths.

Shiga Toxin-Producing E. Coli

The most dangerous strains of E. coli produce a substance known as a Shiga toxin, which can cause serious harm to the human body. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) is often present in the intestines of livestock and other animals, and it may be spread to crops or other plants by these animals. It can also infect food products during the process of packaging, shipping, or preparation.

People who contract an E. coli infection may experience symptoms that involve intestinal distress, including stomach pain and cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Victims may experience a low fever, and in many cases, the illness will run its course within five to seven days. In more serious cases, symptoms can involve severe pain and bloody stool. Children under the age of five, elderly people over the age of 65, and those who have compromised immune systems due to diseases such as HIV or cancer treatments are more likely to experience severe symptoms, and in some cases, their condition may be life-threatening.

In addition to these symptoms, an E. coli infection can also lead to a serious complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), in which the kidneys do not function properly. This occurs in around 5 to 10 percent of cases, and it can lead to permanent kidney damage that can threaten a person’s life. Symptoms of HUS include severe fatigue, a reduced frequency of urination, and a loss of pink color in the cheeks and eyelids. Those who have these symptoms will usually need to be hospitalized, and dialysis may need to be performed to prevent further damage to bodily systems.

Contact Our Chicago E. Coli Injury Lawyers

If you or a member of your family have contracted E. coli after eating tainted food, Newland and Newland, LLP can help you determine who was responsible, and we will work to hold these parties accountable for the harm you have suffered. Food poisoning can not only lead to a great deal of pain and discomfort, but it can have long-lasting or permanent effects on a person’s health. We will fight to make sure you are fully compensated for the costs of medical treatment, the income you have lost, and the pain and suffering you and your family have experienced. Contact our Illinois food poisoning attorneys today at 312-981-0409 to set up a complimentary consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/pdfs/CDC-E.-coli-Factsheet.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/general/index.html