Others may have mild to severe diarrhea, which may contain blood. Abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting may occur. Usually there is little or no fever present. Hemolytic-uremic syndrome is an infrequent and serious complication of E. coli infection, particularly in children under 5 years old. It is characterized by renal failure, or loss of kidney function.
Many patients also develop anemia or a bleeding problem.
Hospitalization and dialysis is usually necessary until kidney function recovers. Many patients have some permanent partial loss of kidney function after they have recovered. Symptoms of illness usually appear about 3 days after swallowing the bacteria, but can range from 1 to 8 days. Some however, may require hospitalization to administer IV fluids too prevent dehydration. Antibiotics may be prescribed by a physician to treat severe cases of illness.