Complications from E. coli poisoning may include anemia, Hemolytic uremic syndrome, kidney failure, and dehydration. Anemia is a decrease in red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen to other parts of our body. Reductions in cells mean our bodies do not receive its full supply of oxygen, which leads to complications. A main indicator of anemia is fatigue and weakness. Additional symptoms may include shortness of breath, discolored nails, and difficulty swallowing. Loss of consciousness, rapid heartbeat, and drop in blood pressure are symptoms of severe anemia. Doctors commonly treat anemia with iron supplements.
Hemolytic uremic syndrome is an illness that occurs once a child has been infected with E. coli bacteria. Children under the age of 10 are primarily affected. This is a serious condition that could possibly lead to kidney failure. Similar to E. coli poisoning, there is no cure for Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The disease must be allowed to run its course. Sadly, there is little that can be done to stop the disease from progressing. HUS is life-threatening, thus children will require around-the-clock monitoring. In more acute cases, patients must undergo a blood transfusion or kidney dialysis.
Kidney failure is an extremely serious complication of E. coli poisoning. Kidneys are a vital organ. Their primary function is to remove waste from our bodies. Early indicators of kidney failure include fatigue and problems urinating. If left untreated, the condition will worsen and cause more grave symptoms such as seizures, loss of consciousness, vomiting, and irreversible coma. Kidney failure from E. coli poisoning has declined due to doctors closely monitoring patients. Problems that arise due to complication are generally detected early and treated before permanent damage occurs. Smokers, diabetics, and individuals who suffer from hypertension are at greater risk of kidney failure following E. coli poisoning.
Those who suffer from E. coli poisoning will likely also suffer from dehydration. E. coli causes terrible diarrhea, thus the body loses much of its water. Replenishing the body with liquids is vital to recovery. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, tongue, infrequent urination, dry skin, and confusion. Although dehydration may appear insignificant when compared to serious conditions such as kidney failure or HUS, severe dehydration may require hospitalization. Complications from dehydration include loss of consciousness, and in rare cases - death. Water and fluids such as soups and juices are treatment options. In severe cases, IV’s are essential to cure dehydration.