Understanding Symptoms of Salmonella: What to Do Next
My boyfriend, who is 26, experienced a fever that peaked at approximately 99.5°F yesterday morning. Thankfully, after resting and taking NyQuil, his fever subsided by this morning. However, he has been dealing with severe abdominal pain and persistent diarrhea since last evening, which has not shown much improvement. He has been making frequent trips to the restroom, nearly every hour throughout the night and again today. While I initially thought he might be improving since the fever has decreased, I became alarmed upon noticing bright red blood in his stool and on the toilet paper after he wipes. It has been around 40 hours since the fever began, and my concern has heightened now that blood has appeared. I’ve come across some online information suggesting these symptoms might be typical for salmonella infections, and I’m uncertain whether we should seek medical attention immediately or if it’s advisable to wait another day or two to see if his condition improves. I realize that consulting a doctor as soon as possible would be the best course of action. However, he currently lacks insurance, which makes him hesitant to get checked right away. Any guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated, thank you.
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 5:20:30 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're concerned about your boyfriend's symptoms, especially the presence of blood in his stool. Given the combination of fever, severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, and blood, it is crucial to take his condition seriously.
Explanation:
The symptoms you've described could indeed suggest a gastrointestinal infection, such as salmonella. This type of infection can lead to diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain and can sometimes be serious, especially when blood is involved. The fact that he has had a fever and significant abdominal discomfort, in addition to the blood in his stool, raises the urgency for medical evaluation. While it may be tempting to wait to see if things improve, the presence of blood indicates a need for prompt attention.
Next Steps:
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Seek Medical Attention Immediately: It is important for your boyfriend to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. The presence of blood in the stool requires a prompt evaluation to rule out more serious conditions. Explain the situation openly to providers—many clinics offer sliding scale fees or payment plans.
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Monitor Symptoms: While you arrange for medical evaluation, continue monitoring his symptoms. Keep track of the frequency of diarrhea, any additional fever, worsening pain, or other new symptoms.
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Hydration: Ensure he stays well-hydrated. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which can be serious. Encourage him to drink clear fluids like water, broth, or oral rehydration solutions if available.
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Rest: Encourage him to continue resting, as his body needs energy to fight off any potential infection.
While it’s natural to feel anxious, reinforcing the need for prompt assessment is key. If symptoms worsen while you wait for care, don’t hesitate to seek emergency help. I’m here if you need more information or support as you navigate this situation.
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