When a person gets salmonella infection, no treatment is necessary as the symptoms abate on their own after a few days. But, if the infection is severe, there is risk of complications and hence, salmonella treatment could be necessary. A mild case of salmonella usually gets better between 5 to 7 days without any medication. But, the person's bowel movements may take months to become normal. (See Reference 1)

Due to the diarrhea and vomiting bouts, there is always a risk of dehydration. Hence, the lost electrolytes have to be replenished. This can be done with the help of sports drinks, like Gatorade, or rehydrating drinks like Pedialyte. (See Reference 1) Alternatively, a rehydrating solution can be made at home and given to the person. The solution can be made by dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt and 4 teaspoons of sugar in 1 quart of water. (See Reference 1)

Other home remedies for treating salmonella include taking charcoal tablets, and using herbs like arsenicum album or nux vomica. Charcoal tablets are generally available at health food stores and aid in the absorption of toxins in the body. (See Reference 1)

When it comes to treating salmonella with the help of medicines, there is a lot of controversy in the medical fraternity. Some doctors believe that since the infection gets okay on its own in a few days time, there is no need for any drugs. On the other hand, there are doctors who put patients on antibiotics, like ciprofloxacin to prevent the spread of infection. However, researchers claim that when antibiotics are used to treat salmonella, they cause the person to be a carrier of the bacterium for a longer period of time. (See Reference 2) Also, usage of antibiotics for treating salmonella can cause a relapse in some people. (See Reference 3)

At times, if the stomach cramps are severe, a doctor may prescribe loperamide to alleviate the cramps. However, this medication can end up prolonging the diarrhea that comes on with salmonella infection. (See Reference 3)

However, if the person is undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from AIDS, or if the patient is an infant under the age of 2 months or an elderly, then antibiotics are prescribed to treat the infection. (See Reference 2) Such patients have compromised immune systems and their bodies do not have the defense mechanism to fight the infection. Also, such patients may require hospitalization to prevent further complications.

Pregnant women are susceptible to a whole range of infections, including salmonella. Hence, they should take extra care to prevent salmonella. They should consume only foods that are thoroughly washed and cooked. In case they still manage to get the infection, the women should consult their doctor if they suffer from dehydration or develop high grade fever. (See Reference 1)

Typically, salmonella treatments involve supportive treatments to prevent dehydration and abnormalities in the potassium and sodium levels. As mentioned earlier, oral fluids are generally given, but if the patient suffers from dehydration, he or she may be given fluids intravenously. (See Reference 2)

Some people can end up as carriers of the bacteria even though they do not have the symptoms of infection. Such people need to be cured, so that they do not spread the infection to others around them. Around eighty-five percent of carriers can be cured effectively by surgically removing their gallbladder and being treated with antibiotics. (See Reference 2)

The main symptoms of salmonella infection include fever, diarrhea and cramps in the stomach. However, the person can also suffer from nausea, vomiting, and headache depending on the severity of the infection. As per CDC, every year in the US, around 40,000 people are afflicted by salmonella. But, the number is higher as many mild cases are not reported to the doctor. (See Reference 1)

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