Symptoms of Campylobacter Infection

Symptoms

Most people with Campylobacter infection have:

• Diarrhea that can be bloody
• Fever
• Stomach cramps

Some people have nausea or vomiting.

Symptoms usually start 2–5 days after swallowing Campylobacter and usually end within 7 days.

Complications

Campylobacter can sometimes cause complications, such as

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Arthritis
• Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)

GBS happens when a person’s own immune system harms their body’s nerves. This harm causes muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis. People with GBS need to be hospitalized.

When to talk to your doctor

What to look for

Dehydration

Dehydration is not having enough fluids in the body. If you have diarrhea or vomiting, be sure to drink plenty of fluids.

Signs of dehydration include:

• Little or no peeing
• Having very dark pee
• Being very thirsty
• Having a dry mouth or throat
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Crying without tears

Dehydration can happen quickly in young children. Give children with diarrhea or vomiting extra fluids, such as Pedialyte^* or oral rehydration salts. Do not wait.

GBS

Early symptoms of GBS include weakness and tingling.

People with GBS usually first feel these symptoms in both legs. Then, they might feel these symptoms in their arms and upper body.

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