What symptom is common in patients with Salmonella infection?

Diarrhea is a hallmark symptom of Salmonella infection, which is categorized as a type of bacterial gastroenteritis. When Salmonella bacteria invade the gastrointestinal tract, they can disrupt the normal functioning of the intestines, leading to increased fluid secretion and reduced absorption. This results in diarrhea, which is often accompanied by abdominal cramps, fever, and nausea.

Salmonella is commonly transmitted through contaminated food or water, and the gastrointestinal symptoms arise as the body responds to the presence of the bacteria. While patients may experience other symptoms such as fever and abdominal pain, diarrhea is particularly significant as it often leads to dehydration if fluid intake is not adequately maintained.

Other options, such as rash, cough, and abdominal swelling, are not characteristic of Salmonella infections. Rash is usually associated with other infections or allergic reactions, cough is more indicative of respiratory infections, and abdominal swelling can occur for various reasons but is not directly linked to Salmonella.