Symptoms of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) usually results from an infection of E. coli O157:H7. So before actual symptoms of HUS appear, one first sees the symptoms of E. coli O157:H7 infection, most notably the presence of bloody diarrhea. Bloody diarrhea is present in 90 percent of cases of HUS caused by E. coli O157:H7. Other symptoms include abdominal pain or non-bloody diarrhea, typically in the absence of any fever. Typical infections end after 5 to 10 days.
If HUS does develop, it may show its first signs up to a week after digestive problems associated with a typical E. coli infection. According to the National Institute of Health’s National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, the first symptoms of HUS are general paleness, tiredness and irritability. Other signs may include unexplained small bruises or bleeding from the nose or mouth. This bleeding is due to platelet (cells which help blood to clot) destruction by the verotoxins produced by the E. coli O157:H7.
Another symptom is a decrease in urine output or the appearance of red urine. The lack of urine is due to damaged red blood cells clogging the blood vessels in the kidneys. This in turn makes it much more difficult for the kidneys to remove waste and fluid from the blood. Because the kidneys fail to function correctly with HUS, the buildup of fluid and waste can cause high blood pressure and swelling of the face, hands, feet or entire body.
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially the unexplained bleeding and bruises or lack of urine and swollenness, please contact your doctor immediately.
Pritzker | Ruohonen has a national practice and represents E. coli victims throughout the United States. To contact the firm, please call toll-free at 1-888-377-8900 or submit the online contact form.
