Symptoms of E. coli O157:H7 usually begin to show 2 to 8 days after exposure to the bacteria. Symptoms often include severe bloody diarrhea or abdominal cramps without a fever. Sometimes non-bloody diarrhea or even no symptoms occur. The illness typically subsides after 5 to 10 days.
In high risk patients such as the elderly and children under 5 years, infection with E. coli O157:H7 can cause a very severe complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS is caused by a toxin produced by the E. coli known as shiga-like toxins. These toxins destroy red blood cells and can cause kidney failure.
Symptoms of HUS may not occur until a week after typical E. coli symptoms occur. Signs can include small bruises or bleeding from the nose that are unexplained. Another common symptom is a reduction in urine output, which is a result of kidney malfunction. Urine may also appear red. The lack of urine can in turn cause high blood pressure or swelling of the face, hands, feet or entire body.
If you would like more information on E. coli O157:H7 and its symptoms, see the CDC website. Another good website is the National Institute of Health website.
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.
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