Dysentery

Overview

Dysentery is infectious gastroenteritis with bloody diarrhea, were in any diarrheal episode in which the loose or watery stool contains visible red blood. In some cases, there can also be mucus along with it.

Signs and Symptoms

Loose or watery diarrhea with visible red blood, Abdominal cramps, Nausea, Vomiting, Fever, Headache, Dehydration

Common Causes

Infection by Shigella species, Infection by Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga-toxin producing E.Coli (STEC), Infection by Campylobacter, Infection by Salmonella enterocolitis, Infection by Yersinia enterocolitica, Infection by Entamoeba histolytica

Risk Factors

Poor hand hygiene, Living in poor sanitation area, Eating contaminated food, Drinking contaminated water, Swimming in contaminated water, Physical contact with infected people, Travelling to places that have poor sanitation

Investigation Techniques

Culture and sensitivity of stool sample, PCR or enzyme immunoassay, Ultrasound scan, Endoscopy

Treatment and Prevention

Adequate rehydration with fluids, Adequate nutrition, Antibiotic if systemically unwell, Practice good sanitary hygiene, Wash hands with soap and water regularly