Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of HUS may vary, depending on the cause. Most cases of HUS are caused by infection with certain strains of E. coli bacteria, which first affect the digestive tract. The initial signs and symptoms of this form of HUS may include:

• Diarrhea, which is often bloody
• Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating
• Vomiting
• Fever

All forms of HUS — no matter the cause — damage the blood vessels. This damage causes red blood cells to break down (anemia), blood clots to form in the blood vessels and kidney damage. Signs and symptoms of these changes include:

• Pale coloring, including loss of pink color in cheeks and inside the lower eyelids
• Extreme fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Easy bruising or unexplained bruises
• Unusual bleeding, such as bleeding from the nose and mouth
• Decreased urination or blood in the urine
• Swelling (edema) of the legs, feet or ankles, and less often in the face, hands, feet or entire body
• Confusion, seizures or stroke
• High blood pressure

When to see a doctor

See your doctor immediately if you or your child experiences bloody diarrhea or several days of diarrhea followed by:

• Decreased urine output
• Swelling
• Unexplained bruises
• Unusual bleeding
• Extreme fatigue

Seek emergency care if you or your child doesn't urinate for 12 hours or more.