Bacterial Digestive Infections: Symptoms

What are the symptoms of bacterial digestive infections?

Bacterial digestive infections cause irritation and inflammation of the intestines that may result in a number of symptoms. The symptoms can vary in intensity among individuals.

Common symptoms of bacterial digestive infections

The most common symptoms of bacterial digestive infections are related to disturbances of the digestive system and include:

• Abdominal bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea that may be bloody
• Flatulence
• Nausea with or without vomiting

Other symptoms of bacterial digestive infections

As a bacterial digestive infection progresses, symptoms of dehydration and other symptoms may develop including:

• Decreased urine output
• Dry skin and mucous membranes (such as dry mouth)
• Feeling very thirsty
• Fever and chills
• Muscle cramps
• Muscle weakness (loss of strength)
• Weight loss

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

On rare occasions, dehydration resulting from bacterial digestive infections may be so severe that a life-threatening situation can develop. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of the following symptoms:

• Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
• Change in mental status or sudden behavior change, such as confusion, delirium, lethargy, hallucinations and delusions
• High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Severe dizziness