Dysentery is a serious intestinal infection that causes severe diarrhea with blood and mucus. It’s often accompanied by abdominal pain, cramping, fever, and dehydration. Although it is more common in areas with poor sanitation, dysentery can affect anyone and should not be ignored. If left untreated, it can lead to complications that affect long-term health.
In this blog, we’ll explore the details of dysentery—its types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
What is Dysentery?
It is a type of gastroenteritis that causes inflammation of the intestines, particularly the colon. It leads to frequent, loose, and often bloody stools, usually accompanied by abdominal pain, nausea, and fever.
There are two primary forms:
Bacillary Dysentery (Shigellosis): Caused by Shigella bacteria.
Amoebic Dysentery (Amoebiasis): Caused by Entamoeba histolytica, a parasite.
While both types can present with similar symptoms, they differ in terms of cause, diagnosis, and treatment.
Causes of Dysentery
1. Bacterial Infections
The most common bacterial cause is Shigella. It spreads through contaminated food or water or direct contact with an infected person. Other bacteria like Salmonella, Campylobacter, and certain strains of E. coli can also cause dysentery.
2. Parasitic Infections
Amoebic dysentery is caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica. This parasite lives in the intestines and can cause ulcerations, leading to bleeding.
3. Contaminated Food and Water
Drinking unclean water or eating food handled in unhygienic conditions is a major risk factor.
4. Poor Sanitation and Hygiene
Areas with inadequate sanitation are breeding grounds for dysentery-causing organisms.
5. Person-to-Person Transmission
Close contact with an infected individual—especially in crowded settings like schools or daycares—can increase the risk.
Dysentery symptoms
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically appear within 1–3 days of infection.
Common symptoms include:
Rectal tenesmus (feeling of incomplete defecation)
Weight loss in prolonged cases
If these symptoms persist beyond 2–3 days or worsen, medical attention is crucial.
How is Dysentery Diagnosed?
Timely and accurate diagnosis helps ensure effective treatment.
1. Stool Test
A stool sample is examined for blood, mucus, bacteria, or parasites.
2. Microscopic Examination
In cases of amoebic dysentery, microscopic analysis can reveal Entamoeba histolytica cysts or trophozoites.
3. Culture Test
This test isolates and identifies the bacteria responsible.
4. Blood Tests
These help assess dehydration, infection severity, and electrolyte imbalances.
5. Colonoscopy (in rare cases)
When symptoms are persistent, a colonoscopy may be done to rule out other gastrointestinal conditions.
Dysentery treatment
Treatment depends on the type (bacterial or amoebic), severity, and patient condition.
1. Hydration Therapy
The most important aspect is to replace fluids and electrolytes lost through diarrhea.
Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)
Intravenous Fluids (in severe cases)
2. Antibiotics
- For bacillary dysentery, antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, or ceftriaxone are prescribed.
- For amoebic dysentery, metronidazole or tinidazole is used to kill the parasites.
Note: Self-medication is dangerous. Always consult a healthcare professional for the correct prescription.
3. Pain and Fever Relief
Paracetamol may be prescribed for fever and discomfort.
4. Rest and Nutrition
Adequate rest and a bland, easy-to-digest diet (like rice, bananas, and toast) support recovery.
Complications of untreated Dysentery
It can lead to complications if left untreated:
Severe Dehydration
Malnutrition
Liver abscess (in amoebic dysentery)
Kidney damage
Intestinal perforation (rare but life-threatening)
Immediate medical attention is vital when symptoms escalate.
Who is at Risk?
While dysentery can affect anyone, some groups are more vulnerable:
Children under 5 years
Elderly individuals
Immunocompromised patients
People living in crowded or unsanitary environments
Travelers to developing countries
Preventing Dysentery
Prevention involves maintaining proper hygiene, sanitation, and food safety:
1. Drink Safe Water
Use filtered or boiled water.
Avoid ice cubes in drinks if the water source is uncertain.
2. Maintain Food Hygiene
Eat freshly cooked food.
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Avoid street food in high-risk areas.
3. Handwashing
Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before meals.
Encourage children to follow hygiene practices.
4. Sanitation Measures
Use clean, well-maintained toilets.
Proper disposal of waste and regular cleaning of living spaces.
5. Vaccination
While there’s no universal vaccine for all forms of dysentery, typhoid vaccines may provide some protection in endemic areas.
Dysentery in Children
Children are especially vulnerable due to immature immune systems. In pediatric cases, it can quickly lead to dehydration and hospitalization.
Warning signs in children:
Sunken eyes
Dry mouth and tongue
No tears while crying
Decreased urination
Lethargy or irritability
Immediate consultation with a pediatrician is advised.
When to Visit a Doctor
Seek prompt medical attention if:
Symptoms last more than 2–3 days
There is visible blood in stools
Severe dehydration signs appear
High fever persists
The patient is a child, elderly, or has a weakened immune system
Dysentery is more than just a case of bad diarrhea. It’s a sign of infection that, when ignored, can have serious consequences. By recognizing symptoms early, maintaining hygiene, and seeking timely medical care, recovery is quick and complete.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of dysentery, don’t wait—get tested and treated at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre today. Your health and comfort are our priority.
To consult a Gastroenterologist at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre for treatment of dysentery, call our helpline number 9830117733.
#BhaloTheko
Disclaimer:
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
[…] What is dysentery? […]
[…] Enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC): Causes inflammatory diarrhea similar to dysentery. […]