What is Dysentery?
Dysentery is a severe intestinal infection that causes inflammation of the intestines and intense diarrhea, often containing blood and mucus.
Types of Dysentery
-
Bacillary dysentery (Shigellosis)
- Caused by Shigella bacteria
- Most common form worldwide
-
Amoebic dysentery (Amoebiasis)
- Caused by Entamoeba histolytica parasite
- More prevalent in tropical regions
Common Symptoms
- Severe diarrhea with blood or mucus
- Intense abdominal cramping
- High fever (up to 40°C/104°F)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dehydration
- Fatigue and weakness
Risk Factors
- Poor sanitation and hygiene
- Contaminated food or water
- Travel to endemic areas
- Crowded living conditions
- Weakened immune system
Diagnosis
- Stool sample analysis
- Blood tests
- Physical examination
- Travel and exposure history
Treatment Options
Immediate Care
- Fluid and electrolyte replacement
- Oral rehydration therapy
- Rest and dietary modifications
Medical Treatment
- Antibiotics (for bacterial dysentery)
- Antiparasitic medications (for amoebic dysentery)
- Supportive care
Prevention
- Practice good hand hygiene
- Drink safe, treated water
- Eat properly cooked foods
- Avoid raw vegetables in endemic areas
- Maintain proper sanitation
When to Seek Medical Care
- Severe diarrhea lasting >3 days
- Blood in stool
- High fever
- Signs of dehydration
- Severe abdominal pain
Complications
- Severe dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Malnutrition
- Kidney problems
Recovery and Follow-up
- Follow prescribed treatment regimen
- Maintain hydration
- Gradual return to normal diet
- Follow-up testing as recommended