What causes yellow stools. How are yellow stools related to nausea. When should you be concerned about yellow stools. What dietary factors can lead to yellow stools. How do liver and gallbladder issues affect stool color. What are the symptoms of celiac disease besides yellow stools. How do pancreatic disorders impact stool appearance.

Understanding Stool Color: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Stool color can be an important indicator of digestive health. While brown is the most common and typically healthy color for stools, variations can occur due to diet, medications, and underlying health conditions. But when should you be concerned about stool color changes, particularly yellow stools?

Normal stool colors range from light to dark brown. This coloration is primarily due to the presence of bilirubin and bile in the digestive system. As bile travels through the gastrointestinal tract, enzymes cause changes that result in the characteristic brown color. However, an imbalance in this process can lead to yellow stools.

The Spectrum of Stool Colors

• Green: Often caused by leafy vegetables, food coloring, or rapid intestinal transit
• Yellow, pale brown, or gray: May indicate liver, gallbladder issues, or infections like giardiasis
• Orange: Can result from certain foods, antibiotics, or antacids
• Blue: Usually due to consuming blue-colored foods or drinks
• Black: Potentially caused by certain foods, supplements, or upper GI bleeding
• Bright red: May indicate lower GI bleeding or consumption of red-colored foods

While occasional changes in stool color are normal, persistent alterations lasting more than two weeks or accompanied by other symptoms warrant medical attention.

Common Causes of Yellow Stools: From Diet to Disease

Yellow stools can be alarming, but they’re not always a sign of serious health issues. Several factors can contribute to this color change:

1. Dietary Influences

What we eat plays a significant role in stool color. Foods rich in beta-carotene, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, can tint stools yellow. Similarly, turmeric and foods containing yellow food coloring may have the same effect. High-fat diets or those rich in gluten can also lead to yellow stools in some individuals.

2. Stress and Anxiety

Surprisingly, psychological factors like stress and anxiety can impact stool color. How does stress affect digestion? Stress can accelerate the digestive process, potentially leading to malabsorption of nutrients. This rapid transit through the intestines may result in yellow, poorly formed stools.

3. Celiac Disease

Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption, can cause yellow stools. In celiac patients, gluten ingestion leads to an immune response that damages the small intestine, compromising nutrient absorption. Besides yellow stools, what are other symptoms of celiac disease?

• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea and bloating
• Fatigue and headaches
• Depression

Pancreatic Disorders and Their Impact on Stool Color

The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion, producing enzymes necessary for breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. When pancreatic function is compromised, it can lead to yellow, greasy stools.

Conditions Affecting the Pancreas

1. Chronic pancreatitis
2. Cystic fibrosis
3. Pancreatic cancer
4. Blockage of the pancreatic duct

In these conditions, the pancreas fails to produce sufficient digestive enzymes, resulting in malabsorption of fats. This undigested fat can cause stools to appear yellow and greasy, often with a frothy texture.

Liver Disorders and Yellow Stools: The Bile Connection

The liver produces bile, a greenish-yellow fluid essential for fat digestion and nutrient absorption. Liver disorders can disrupt bile production, leading to changes in stool color.

How do liver problems affect stool color?

Conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis can reduce or eliminate bile salts in the body. Without adequate bile, fats are not properly digested, resulting in pale or yellow stools. Additionally, these liver disorders may cause other symptoms like jaundice, where the skin and whites of the eyes take on a yellowish tint.

Gallbladder Issues: When Yellow Stools Signal Trouble

The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. Problems with the gallbladder, such as gallstones or inflammation, can interfere with bile release, potentially causing yellow stools.

Recognizing Gallbladder Problems

Besides yellow stools, what other symptoms might indicate gallbladder issues?

• Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sudden drop in blood pressure
• Jaundice
• Pale stools

Treatment for gallbladder problems varies depending on the specific issue. While some conditions may be managed with medication, others might require surgical intervention.

Gilbert Syndrome: A Genetic Cause of Yellow Stools

Gilbert syndrome is a genetic liver disorder affecting 3-7% of Americans. This condition causes periodic elevations in bilirubin levels, which can lead to mild jaundice and yellow stools.

Understanding Gilbert Syndrome

How does Gilbert syndrome differ from other liver disorders? Unlike many liver conditions, Gilbert syndrome is generally benign and doesn’t require treatment. Symptoms are often so mild that many people are unaware they have the condition. However, during periods of stress, illness, or fasting, symptoms may become more noticeable.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Yellow Stools

While occasional changes in stool color are usually not cause for alarm, persistent yellow stools or those accompanied by other symptoms warrant medical evaluation.

Red Flags to Watch For

When should you consult a doctor about yellow stools?

• Yellow stools persisting for more than two weeks
• Accompanying symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, or unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits (e.g., chronic diarrhea or constipation)
• Signs of dehydration
• Presence of blood in the stool

Your healthcare provider may recommend tests to determine the underlying cause of your yellow stools, which could include blood tests, stool analysis, or imaging studies.

Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications for Yellow Stools

In many cases, yellow stools can be addressed through simple dietary and lifestyle changes. Here are some strategies that may help:

Dietary Adjustments

1. Reduce intake of fatty, processed foods
2. Limit or eliminate gluten if you suspect celiac disease or gluten sensitivity
3. Increase fiber intake to promote regular bowel movements
4. Stay hydrated to support healthy digestion

Stress Management Techniques

Given the potential link between stress and digestive issues, incorporating stress-reduction strategies may be beneficial. Consider practices such as:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Yoga
• Adequate sleep
• Counseling or therapy if stress is a significant concern

Remember, while these lifestyle modifications can be helpful, they should not replace professional medical advice. If you’re concerned about persistent yellow stools or accompanying symptoms, always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnostic Approaches for Yellow Stools

When investigating the cause of yellow stools, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic tools and techniques. Understanding these approaches can help patients better navigate the diagnostic process.

Common Diagnostic Tests

1. Stool analysis: Examines the composition of the stool for signs of infection, inflammation, or malabsorption
2. Blood tests: Can reveal liver function, pancreatic enzyme levels, and indicators of celiac disease
3. Imaging studies: Such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to visualize the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas
4. Endoscopy: May be used to examine the upper digestive tract and take tissue samples if necessary
5. Colonoscopy: To inspect the lower digestive tract and rule out conditions like inflammatory bowel disease

The specific tests ordered will depend on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and physical examination findings. It’s crucial for patients to provide a detailed history, including any recent dietary changes or new medications, to aid in accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Yellow Stools

Treatment for yellow stools varies widely depending on the underlying cause. Here’s an overview of potential treatment approaches for various conditions associated with yellow stools:

Celiac Disease

The primary treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. This involves eliminating all sources of gluten, including wheat, barley, and rye. How effective is a gluten-free diet in managing celiac disease? For most patients, adhering to a gluten-free diet can resolve symptoms and allow the intestines to heal over time.

Pancreatic Disorders

Treatment for pancreatic disorders may include:

• Enzyme replacement therapy to aid digestion
• Pain management strategies
• Dietary modifications to reduce fat intake
• In severe cases, surgery may be necessary

Liver Disorders

Treatment depends on the specific liver condition but may involve:

• Medications to manage symptoms or treat underlying infections
• Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol
• In advanced cases, liver transplantation may be considered

Gallbladder Issues

Treatment options for gallbladder problems include:

• Medications to dissolve gallstones
• Dietary changes to reduce fat intake
• Cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder) for severe cases

It’s important to note that treatment should always be guided by a healthcare professional based on a thorough evaluation of the individual’s condition.

Prevention Strategies for Maintaining Healthy Digestion

While not all causes of yellow stools are preventable, there are several steps individuals can take to promote overall digestive health and potentially reduce the occurrence of abnormal stool colors:

Dietary Considerations

1. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
2. Stay adequately hydrated
3. Limit intake of processed and high-fat foods
4. Consider probiotics to support gut health

Lifestyle Factors

• Regular exercise to promote digestive motility
• Stress management techniques
• Adequate sleep to support overall health
• Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption

By incorporating these preventive measures, individuals can support their digestive health and potentially reduce the likelihood of developing conditions that lead to yellow stools.

The Role of Gut Microbiome in Stool Color and Digestive Health

Recent research has highlighted the crucial role of the gut microbiome in overall health, including digestive function and stool characteristics. The gut microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms that inhabit our digestive tract, playing a vital role in nutrient absorption, immune function, and even mental health.

How does the gut microbiome affect stool color?

The balance of bacteria in our gut can influence stool color in several ways:

• Certain bacteria produce pigments that can tint the stool
• An imbalance in gut bacteria can affect the digestion and absorption of nutrients, potentially leading to changes in stool color
• Some bacteria play a role in bile acid metabolism, which can impact stool color

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome through diet, probiotics, and lifestyle factors may contribute to more consistent and healthy stool colors.

Yellow Stools in Infants: When to Worry

Yellow stools are common and often normal in infants, especially those who are breastfed. However, there are instances where yellow stools in babies may indicate a problem.

Normal vs. Abnormal Yellow Stools in Babies

What should parents look out for regarding yellow stools in infants?

• Consistency: Mustard-like or seedy yellow stools are typical for breastfed babies
• Frequency: Frequent yellow stools can be normal, especially in breastfed infants
• Accompanying symptoms: Yellow stools with signs of discomfort, fever, or poor weight gain warrant medical attention
• Changes over time: Sudden changes in stool color or consistency should be discussed with a pediatrician

While yellow stools are often normal in infants, parents should always consult with their pediatrician if they have concerns about their baby’s digestive health.

Future Directions in Digestive Health Research

As our understanding of digestive health continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions that can lead to yellow stools and other digestive issues.

Emerging Areas of Study

1. Microbiome-based therapies: Targeting the gut microbiome to treat digestive disorders
2. Personalized nutrition: Tailoring dietary recommendations based on individual genetic and microbiome profiles
3. Advanced imaging techniques: Developing non-invasive methods for assessing digestive health
4. Biomarkers: Identifying new indicators in stool or blood that can provide early warning of digestive issues

These advancements hold promise for more effective and personalized approaches to managing digestive health and addressing issues like yellow stools.

In conclusion, while yellow stools can be alarming, they often have benign causes related to diet or temporary digestive upset. However, persistent yellow stools or those accompanied by other symptoms should prompt a medical evaluation. By understanding the various factors that can influence stool color and overall digestive health, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their well-being and seek appropriate care when needed.

Yellow stool: 8 causes

Stool is usually brown because of a balance of bilirubin and bile. An imbalance can cause stool to become yellow. This could be due to dietary factors, a liver problem, a gallbladder disorder, or another health condition.

Stools may change color for various reasons, including a person’s diet and various underlying medical conditions. Yellow is a normal variation of stool color in infants.

Changes in stool color are also normal. Watch for consistent changes over time and consult with a doctor if other symptoms are present.

This article will outline the causes of yellow stool in adults and infants, complications, and when to see a doctor.

A person’s diet and the level of bile present in the stool directly influence a person’s stool color. Bile is yellow-green, and as it travels through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, enzymes cause changes that turn it brown.

All shades of brown-colored stool are normal. If a person’s stool is red or black, or other changes remain longer than 2 weeks or come with other symptoms, they should consult a doctor.

Stools can be other colors, including:

• Green: Eating leafy green vegetables, green food coloring, iron supplements, or diarrhea moving food through the intestine too quickly may cause this color.
• Yellow, pale brown, or gray: Giardiasis can cause bright yellow diarrhea. Pale yellow or gray stool can result from problems in the liver or gallbladder.
• Orange: Eating carrots, winter squash, antibiotics, or antacids could cause this color.
• Blue: Usually the result of eating artificially blue foods or drinking blue beverages.
• Black, tarry: Eating black licorice or taking iron supplements, and bleeding in the upper GI tract, cirrhosis, or colorectal cancer can also cause black stool. Medication containing bismuth subsalicylate, better known as Pepto Bismol or Kaopectate, can also cause black, tarry stools.
• Bright red: Eating or drinking red, artificially colored food or drinks can cause this. Certain conditions can cause bleeding in the upper GI tract, such as cirrhosis or GI tumors. Hemorrhoids can cause bleeding in the lower GI tract and cause stool to be red.

Possible causes of yellow stool include:

Diet

Since the GI tract processes food for elimination, what a person eats can affect the color of their stool.

Carrots, sweet potatoes, turmeric, and foods that contain yellow food coloring may cause stool to become yellow.

A diet high in fat or gluten can also lead to yellow stool.

If a person regularly has yellow stools, they should try avoiding fatty, processed foods, gluten, or anything that causes an upset stomach.

Stress

Stress and anxiety can have many physical effects on the body, including speeding up the digestive process.

As a result, the body may not be able to absorb all of the nutrients in food, which may lead to diarrhea or yellow stool.

Taking steps to relieve stress by reducing commitments, practicing yoga, or seeing a therapist may help reduce physical symptoms.

Celiac disease

If people with celiac disease eat gluten, a protein in wheat, rye, and barley, their immune system responds by attacking the tissues of their small intestine.

This immune response causes tissue damage and compromises the intestines’ ability to absorb nutrients.

In addition to yellow stool, symptoms of celiac disease include:

• diarrhea
• constipation
• nausea
• bloating
• fatigue
• headaches
• depression

There is no cure for celiac disease, but a person can effectively manage the condition by avoiding gluten.

Disorders of the pancreas

Disorders of the pancreas can cause yellow or pale stool. Some of these disorders include:

• chronic pancreatitis
• cystic fibrosis
• pancreatic cancer
• blockage of the pancreatic duct

In people with these conditions, the pancreas cannot provide enough enzymes for the intestines to digest food. Undigested fat can lead to yellow stool that also appears greasy or frothy.

Liver disorders

Disorders of the liver, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, can lower or eliminate bile salts in the body.

Bile salts are essential for the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. The removal of these salts can result in yellow stools.

Gallbladder disorders

Gallbladder problems and gallstones can also reduce the level of bile salts in the body. This reduction can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• abdominal pain
• a fast heartbeat
• an abrupt drop in blood pressure
• jaundice, the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes
• pale stool

Treatment will depend on the specific gallbladder issue. The treatment for gallstones, for example, may include medication to dissolve the stones. In some cases, a person may need surgery.

Gilbert syndrome

Gilbert syndrome is a genetic liver disorder that affects 3–7% of Americans.

People with Gilbert syndrome have periods when their bilirubin levels are too high. Symptoms include mild jaundice and yellow stool. However, the symptoms can be so mild that most people do not notice them or know they have the condition.

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is a common intestinal infection caused by a microscopic parasite. A person can contract the Giardia parasite by ingesting Giardia cysts, usually through contaminated food or water.

Symptoms of giardiasis include:

• stomach cramps
• foul-smelling diarrhea
• yellow diarrhea
• nausea
• fever
• headaches
• weight loss

A doctor can diagnose giardiasis by testing a person’s stool samples. Treatment involves antibiotics, and the symptoms can last for up to a few weeks. In rare cases, the infection can be long term.

In infants, shades of yellow, brown, and green are all common stool colors. Babies fed formula may have thicker and darker stools, similar to mustard or soft play dough.

In the first week after birth, babies fed human milk will have three or four mustard-yellow, loose stools every 24 hours.

Speak with a doctor if an infant has red, black, or white poop, as this can indicate a problem.

An older adults’ diet or an underlying medical condition may cause yellow stools.

Liver or gallbladder disorders can reduce the production of bile salts, resulting in pale or yellow-colored stools.

If accompanied by diarrhea, older adults should avoid dehydration by drinking water or using oral rehydration solutions.

Yellow stool by itself does not lead to complications, but the underlying cause of it might.

Yellow stool may indicate a malabsorption disorder caused by a parasite, illness, or disease.

Malabsorption of fat can lead to an increased fat content in stools, which can be pale, large, foul-smelling, and loose. This is known as steatorrhea, and complications may include:

• malnutrition
• weight loss
• vitamin deficiencies
• iron deficiency anemia
• poor bone health

Yellow stool is usually due to dietary changes or food colors. However, if the color change continues for several days or other symptoms are present, it is best to contact a doctor.

A person should see a doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms with yellow stool:

• a fever
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• pus-filled stool
• inability to urinate
• trouble breathing
• fainting
• a lack of awareness
• confusion or mental changes

The cause of yellow stool is usually related to a person’s diet, but it can also result from underlying health problems.

Some health problems can lead to malabsorption and malnutrition which can cause a loss of important vitamins and nutrients.

It is essential to look out for additional symptoms and see a doctor if the yellow color persists. The treatment will depend on the underlying cause.

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Yellow Poop: Causes, Meaning, and Treatment

It’s common for your stool to change color. You likely have a varied diet, and changes in your diet impact your stool. But yellow stool could also mean one of a number of health conditions.

Bilirubin and bile give poop its brown color. Bilirubin is a byproduct of your red blood cells. It’s produced in the liver and then moves to the gallbladder, where it mixes with bile.

From there, most of the bilirubin passes into your intestines, where it’s broken down by bacteria and discarded in your feces or urine.

Several health conditions can cause yellow stool, also called pale stool.

1. Liver and gallbladder disorders

Cirrhosis of the liver and hepatitis reduce or eliminate bile salts that help the body digest food and absorb nutrients. Gallstones or sludge in the gallbladder can reduce the amount of bile that reaches your intestines. Not only may this cause pain, but it can also turn your stool yellow.

2. Disorders that affect the pancreas

Chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, a blockage in the pancreatic duct, or cystic fibrosis can also turn your stool yellow.

These conditions can cause steatorrhea, which means that your pancreas isn’t providing enough of the enzymes your intestines need to digest fat in food. The undigested fat can give the stool a yellow, greasy appearance causing it to float or appear frothy.

3. Celiac disease

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. If you have celiac disease and eat gluten, your body’s immune system responds by attacking and damaging the tissues of your small intestine. When this happens, your intestines aren’t able to absorb the nutrients your body needs. Celiac disease commonly runs in families.

According to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, more than 250 symptoms are associated with celiac disease. This can make it difficult to diagnose the condition. The most common symptoms include:

• diarrhea
• constipation
• nausea
• bloating
• fatigue
• headache
• skin rash
• loss of bone density
• depression

Although there is no cure for celiac disease, it can be treated effectively by eliminating gluten from your diet.

4. Gilbert’s syndrome

Gilbert’s syndrome is a genetic liver disorder characterized by periods when bilirubin levels are too high. The U.S. National Library of Medicine reports that Gilbert’s syndrome affects 3% to 7% of Americans. Symptoms of the disorder, primarily mild jaundice, are so mild that many people don’t know they have it. Gilbert’s syndrome is usually left untreated.

5. Giardiasis

Giardiasis is an infection of the intestinal tract by a microscopic parasite called giardia. You get giardiasis by ingesting giardia cysts. These are typically ingested with your food or water.

Symptoms of giardiasis may include:

• foul-smelling diarrhea that is often yellow
• stomach cramps
• nausea
• headache
• Low grade fever
• weight loss

Giardiasis is diagnosed by testing a stool sample. Although some people don’t require treatment, most are given antibiotics. Giardiasis often lasts several weeks. Giardiasis may become chronic, though this is rare.

Giardiasis is a common disorder worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), giardiasis is the most widespread intestinal parasitic infection in the United States.

Q:

When changing my baby’s diaper, sometimes his stool is yellow. Is this normal? If not, how should I treat it?

A Healthline reader

A:

Yes, yellow stool can indicate a shorter transit time of food through the intestinal tract. Different colors (darker) can indicate that transit time is slowing. It is not uncommon for stool to change colors. If you notice blood or diarrhea, you should notify your doctor immediately, as these may herald a serious health issue.

Timothy J. Legg, PhD, CRNPAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

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If you are older and have a yellow stool, it may be a sign of another health condition. These can include:

• diarrhea
• GERD
• cholestasis
• pancreatic, liver, or gallbladder disease
• abdominal tumor

Some of the complications of untreated yellow stool include low red blood counts, dehydration, poor nutrition, growth trouble in children, and the potential to spread cancers or infections.

Some symptoms are warning signs of a digestive tract problem, such as:

• diarrhea
• nausea and vomiting
• indigestion and gas
• severely bad-smelling stool
• swelling and bloating in the abdomen
• cramping in the abdomen

Other complications that may occur with yellow stool are jaundice, fever and fatigue, skin itching, and bone or joint pain.

If your stool turns yellow, it’s most often due to changes in your diet. If the color persists for several days or is accompanied by other symptoms, you may want to contact your doctor.

You should see your doctor if your yellow stool is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

• passing out
• lack of awareness
• confusion or mental changes
• fever
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• trouble breathing
• pus-filled stool
• lack of urine

You can connect with a primary care doctor in your area using the Healthline FindCare tool.

Is yellow poop normal?

Yellow poop can be your body’s typical reaction to what you eat. Some causes of this are eating foods high in food coloring, carrots, or sweet potatoes. It may also be from certain gluten products or a diet high in fats. That said, if it’s happening chronically, you may want to see a doctor to exclude an underlying medical cause.

Does yellow poop mean infection?

Yellow poop can be caused by giardiasis, which is a bacterial infection. However, it’s not the only possible cause.

Can Covid-19 cause yellow poop?

Research shows that people who experience diarrhea as a symptom of Covid-19 can have yellow stool. This is likely due to your body not having enough time to digest your food.

Your bowel movements may differ in color, depending on what you’ve eaten recently. But if your stool is yellow, it could be indicative of a medical condition.

If you are having yellow poop, especially if you are noticing it frequently, see your doctor for an evaluation. Many things can cause yellow stool, and it’s a good idea to find the cause in case you need treatment.

causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Salmonellosis is an infectious disease of the digestive system resulting from infection with bacteria of the genus Salmonella, accompanied by severe intoxication and dehydration, sometimes proceeding like typhoid, or with septicemia. The most dangerous in terms of salmonellosis are thermally poorly processed eggs, dairy and meat products. The course of salmonellosis can occur according to the gastrointestinal or generalized variant, bacterial excretion is possible without clinical manifestations. The diagnosis of salmonellosis is made when salmonella is found in the feces and vomit of the patient.

General information

Salmonellosis is an infectious disease of the digestive system resulting from infection with bacteria of the genus Salmonella, accompanied by severe intoxication and dehydration, sometimes proceeding like typhoid, or with septicemia.

Causes

Salmonella is a genus of gram-negative, motile, facultative anaerobic, rod-shaped microorganisms. Relatively stable in the environment. They can remain viable in water for up to 5 months, in soil for up to one and a half years, in meat for up to six months, in bird carcasses for up to a year or more. About 20 days are preserved in milk, a month in kefir and four in butter. Salmonella can remain alive in cheese for up to a year, 3-9months in egg powder and 17-24 days in egg shells. Salmonella die after 5-10 minutes at a temperature of 70 ° C. They can withstand boiling for some time if they are in the thickness of a large piece of meat. When boiled, eggs die after 4 minutes. In milk and meat products, Salmonella not only persist, but also actively multiply, without affecting the organoleptic properties of the products. Microorganisms are quite resistant to salting and smoking, and when frozen, they increase the duration of their lifespan. At present, resident (in other words, hospital) strains of Salmonella have been isolated that have a high degree of resistance to antibiotic therapy and disinfectants.

The reservoir and source of salmonellosis is livestock, poultry, and some wild animals. In animals, the disease can occur both with clinical manifestations and asymptomatically. Healthy animals do not get sick with salmonellosis, individuals with a weakened immune system are prone to this. Salmonella enters the bloodstream of such animals and colonizes organs and tissues. A person becomes infected when caring for sick animals, slaughtering them, eating infected products of animal origin. Birds with salmonellosis can contaminate furnishings and food with droppings. In some cases (certain types of pathogen), a person can be the source of infection. Animals are contagious for several months, a person can transmit the infection from a few days to three weeks, sometimes the carrier state persists for years.

Salmonellosis is transmitted by the fecal-oral mechanism, mainly by food. The main role in the epidemiology of salmonellosis is played by meat and dairy products, bird eggs. The water way of infection is realized in case of Salmonella ingress into sources of drinking water for livestock in livestock farms. The contact-household route is often of great epidemiological significance in cases of nosocomial infections. In urban conditions, the implementation of the air-dust route of infection is possible.

Humans are highly susceptible to salmonellosis. The severity of the developed infection depends on a complex of factors, both external (the number of pathogens that have entered the body, their antigenic composition and biological characteristics) and internal (the state of the human body’s defense systems, concomitant pathologies, in particular the digestive system). The infection is most severe in infants (especially premature infants) and the elderly. Post-infectious immunity is unstable, lasts no more than a year.

Classification

According to the clinical picture and the degree of spread, the infectious process is divided into gastrointestinal, generalized salmonellosis and bacterial excretion. The gastrointestinal form differs in localization into options: gastritis, gastroenteritis and gastroenterocolitis.

Generalized salmonellosis can occur in the form of two variants: typhoid-like and septic. Bacterial excretion can be acute, chronic and transitory.

Symptoms of salmonellosis

The incubation period of salmonellosis can last from several hours to two days. Clinical manifestations depend on the variant of the disease. The most common form is the gastroenteric variant of salmonellosis. It is characterized by general intoxication and impaired water-salt metabolism. The disease begins acutely, with an increase in temperature and an increase in signs of intoxication (headache, muscle aches, weakness). Then, spastic pain occurs in the abdomen with predominant localization in the upper abdomen and umbilical region, nausea and frequent vomiting. Diarrhea soon joins, the feces quickly acquire a watery, frothy character, are offensive, sometimes their greenish tint is noted. Diarrhea and vomiting have different frequency depending on the severity of the course of the disease. The abundance of excreted fluid during vomiting and defecation leads to the development of dehydration.

Physical examination reveals pallor of the skin despite fever, sometimes cyanosis, dry and coated tongue, and bloating. On palpation in the abdomen, rumbling, moderate pain is noted. When listening to the heart tachycardia, the tones are muffled. Pulse of soft filling, tendency to arterial hypotension. Quite often note a moderate oliguria. With severe dehydration, seizures may develop, mainly of the lower extremities.

In the gastroenterocolitis variant, by the second or third day, the volume of bowel movements decreases, mucus and streaks of blood can be found in the feces. Palpation of the abdomen reveals soreness and spasm of the large intestine, defecation may be accompanied by tenesmus. The gastritis variant has the mildest and shortest duration, and is relatively rare. It is also characterized by an acute onset, less pronounced intoxication, and repeated vomiting. The pain is localized mainly in the epigastric region, diarrhea does not develop. In the gastrointestinal form of salmonellosis, the severity is determined by the severity of intoxication and dehydration syndromes. The degree of intoxication usually characterizes body temperature, which can vary from low-grade fever to severe fever.

The generalized form may present with a typhoid-like variant, with gastroenteric events often present initially. Subsequently, as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea subside, fever and signs of intoxication (headache, insomnia, severe weakness) increase, while the fever acquires a constant or undulating character. When examining a patient, elements of a hemorrhagic rash on the skin can sometimes be noted; hepatosplenomegaly is detected on days 3-5. Characterized by moderate arterial hypotension, relative bradycardia. The clinical picture resembles that of typhoid fever.

The septic variant of salmonellosis also often begins with a gastrointestinal clinic, followed by severe persistent remittent fever, tachycardia, chills and intense sweating when the temperature drops. There is a hepatolienal syndrome. The disease is severe, long-term, can contribute to the development of secondary foci of purulent inflammation in the lungs, kidneys and bladder (pyelonephritis, cystitis), endocarditis, abscesses and phlegmon. Sometimes inflammation of the iris is noted.

After salmonellosis, regardless of its form, some patients continue to excrete the pathogen (bacterioexcretion) for up to a month. If bacterial excretion is delayed for more than three months, it is recognized as chronic. Severe complications with a high probability of death include infectious-toxic shock, which is accompanied by pulmonary and cerebral edema, cardiovascular, renal and adrenal insufficiency. Generalized forms are fraught with the development of purulent complications.

Diagnosis of salmonellosis

For diagnosis, the pathogen is isolated from vomit and feces (in generalized forms, the pathogen is detected in blood cultures). Sometimes bacteria can be isolated from the washings of the stomach and intestines, bile. To identify the pathogen, inoculation is carried out on nutrient media. Serological diagnostics is performed using RNGA, RKA, RLA, ELISA, RIA.

The degree of dehydration is determined based on the analysis of data on hematocrit, blood viscosity, acid-base status and electrolyte balance. With the development of complications of salmonellosis, it is necessary to consult a cardiologist, urologist, nephrologist and other specialists, depending on the type of complication.

Treatment of salmonellosis

Patients with a severe form of the course or those prone to complications are subject to hospitalization, in other cases, treatment is carried out at home. It is desirable to initially carry out measures to wash the stomach and intestines (siphon enemas, enterosorbents). Then carry out the correction of the water-salt balance, taking measures for rehydration. Dehydration of the first and second degree is corrected by frequent fractional ingestion of saline solutions. More severe dehydration may require intravenous fluid therapy with isotonic polyionic solutions.

Detoxification therapy with colloidal solutions or 10% dextran solution is carried out only after restoration of water and electrolyte homeostasis. Signs of severe metabolic acidosis are an indication for the appointment of intravenous sodium bicarbonate.

Antibiotic therapy is indicated for generalized disease. Prescribe drugs of the fluoroquinolone group, chloramphenicol, doxycycline. For the treatment of gastrointestinal forms of the disease, antibiotics are used only in cases of infection resistant to other therapeutic measures. With the gastrointestinal form, the appointment of enzyme preparations (pancreatin, dry bile) gives a good effect. In the acute period of the disease, the patients were prescribed diet No. 4, after the subsidence of intestinal manifestations – No. 13.

Prevention of salmonellosis

General prevention of salmonellosis includes measures to ensure sanitary and hygienic conditions when keeping, slaughtering livestock and poultry, processing carcasses and products of animal origin, preparing dishes from them at public catering establishments and food production. As well as measures to control the incidence of farm animals and birds. Individual prevention consists in careful culinary processing of products of animal origin, compliance with the terms of food storage.

Measures of specific prevention of salmonellosis (vaccination) are not provided due to the antigenic heterogeneity of the pathogen and the instability of the immune system. Emergency prophylaxis in the focus of infection during nosocomial outbreaks is carried out using a therapeutic Salmonella bacteriophage.

What can cause yellow diarrhea and vomiting?.

Multi-probiotic BAK-SET

Frequent loose stools and vomiting occur when the body tries to get rid of stomach contents. They help cleanse it and avoid severe intoxication. Even one such attack requires urgent medical attention, as it indicates a malfunction in the digestive tract. Find out what diseases are characterized by such symptoms, what to do when they appear and how to normalize digestion.

Root Causes

If the discharge during vomiting and diarrhea is yellow, they contain impurities of blood, pus or mucus, this may say:

• about the development of a bacterial or viral intestinal infection – it can also be accompanied by fever, weakness, abdominal pain, runny nose;
• violations of the liver and gallbladder – they are responsible for the production of bile, which gives feces and vomit a yellow color;
• food or alcohol poisoning – diarrhea and vomiting are an attempt by the body to remove toxic substances that have entered the stomach along with dirty water or low-quality products;
• food allergies or intolerance to certain foods – if the body considers them harmful, it will try to clear the stomach of them as quickly as possible.

How to improve the work of the digestive tract?

If you have diarrhea and yellow vomiting, you should immediately seek medical help. Before consulting a specialist, you should refuse to eat, little by little, but often enough to drink clean water. The doctor will determine the cause of digestive disorders and prescribe drugs that will help normalize it.

To prevent complications in intestinal infections and other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, specialists often prescribe probiotic complexes. With diarrhea and vomiting, the microbial balance in the intestines is inevitably disturbed, and probiotics help restore it.

Clinically proven effectiveness is distinguished by English multiprobiotics from the BAK-SET line. It includes powder for newborns and capsules for children from 3 years old and adults. The complexes contain several strains of beneficial bacteria that are resistant to acidic gastric juice and do not require refrigeration.