Dysentery

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Other names for Dysentery

Bacillary dysentery
Amoebic dysentery
Shigellosis
Entamoebiasis

Synopsis of Dysentery

Dysentery is an intestinal infection characterized by severe diarrhea with blood and mucus in the stool, often accompanied by abdominal cramps, fever, and dehydration. It is caused primarily by two agents: Shigella bacteria (bacillary dysentery) and Entamoeba histolytica parasites (amoebic dysentery). Bacillary dysentery is more common in developed areas, while amoebic dysentery is often associated with poor sanitation and tropical climates.

Transmission typically occurs through the fecal-oral route—contaminated food, water, or surfaces—making outbreaks more common in overcrowded or unsanitary environments. Once ingested, these pathogens invade the intestinal lining, triggering inflammation and damage that lead to painful, bloody stools and frequent urges to defecate.

Complications can include dehydration, malnutrition, colonic ulceration, and in rare cases, systemic infection or liver abscesses (especially in amoebic dysentery). Rapid medical attention is essential in severe cases, particularly in children, the elderly, or immunocompromised individuals.

Diagnosis is made via stool analysis and sometimes imaging or endoscopy. Treatment depends on the cause—antibiotics for bacterial infections and antiparasitic medications for amoebic forms.

When to see a doctor:
Seek immediate medical care if you experience blood in stools, persistent diarrhea lasting more than 2 days, fever, dehydration, or severe abdominal pain. Children and elderly patients with symptoms should not delay treatment.

Natural remedies for Dysentery

Hydration: Oral rehydration with electrolyte solutions or broths is crucial to prevent dehydration.

Probiotics: Support the restoration of gut flora disrupted by infection.

Clear Diet: Eat easily digestible foods like rice porridge, bananas, and boiled potatoes until recovery.

Avoid Dairy and Spices: These may aggravate the intestines during recovery.

Guava Leaf Tea or Pomegranate Peel Tea: Traditional remedies believed to help reduce diarrhea.