Dysentery

Dysentery is the inflammation or infection of the intestine mainly the colon part accompanied by severe diarrhea that may contain blood. It’s mainly caused by bacteria ( Shigella bacillus) and parasites named entamoeba histolytica.

This infection is spread via food and water that has been contaminated with fecal matter.

Types of dysentery:

Bacillus dysentery: bacillus dysentery is a very common condition mainly caused by a bacteria named SHIGELLA BACILLUS and the disease termed shigellosis. It can occur as an asymptomatic infection to mild diarrhea.

Amoebic dysentery: amoebic dysentery is caused by parasites called entamoeba histolytica. This is mainly caused by poor hygiene and spread through human feces.

Causes of dysentery:
● Intake of contaminated water or food.
● Poor hygiene.
● Swimming in contaminated water like a lake or pond. ● Viral infection or worm infection can cause dysentery.

Symptoms:

Bacillus dysentery: symptoms usually appear 1 to 3 days after getting infected by bacterias.

Bacillus dysentery causes symptoms like: ● Diarrhea with abdominal cramp
● Fever
● Vomiting and nausea

● Blood or mucus in the stool ● Weakness
● Fatigue

But in most cases, there is no need to consult a doctor because it resolves in a few days after.

Amoebic dysentery:
It causes symptoms 2-4 weeks after getting infected by parasites.

Symptoms of amoebic dysentery: ● Nausea

● Diarrhea with blood and mucus discharge ● Abdominal pain
● Fever with chills
● Weight loss

Amoebic dysentery can lead to serious conditions like:
● A liver abscess that may cause nausea and vomiting

● Pain in the right hypochondriac region ● Hepatomegaly
● An abscess can lead to ulceration
● Fatigue

● Diarrhea alternating with constipation

Patients need proper treatment if suffering from amoebic dysentery or it can be fatal.

Complications:
● Dehydration
● Weakness
● Liver abscess
● Hemolytic uremic syndrome ● Kidney failure
● Low platelet count
● Arthritis

Prevention and management:
● To reduce the risk of infection maintain hygiene ● Wash hands before having a meal

● Wash hands properly with soap after using the bathroom ● Food should be cooked thoroughly
● Wash fruits and vegetables before using them
● Take plenty of fluids

● Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption Homeopathy management:

●  Merc cor: merc cor is well indicated for dysentery with severe tenesmus of the rectum and relieved after passing stool. Tenesmus in the bladder wall. The discharge is acrid. Scanty evacuation of mucus and blood. Congestion of liver and venous stasis. Stool bloody and slimy and very offensive or black color.

●  Merc sol: merc cor can be given in the tenesmus of the rectum. Rectal discharge is associated with chilliness and stomach pain. Constipation. Diarrhea is purulent with chill and hot flashes. Long continued diarrhea and weakness.

●  Capsicum: Capsicum is well-indicated medicine for dysentery with blood or mucus discharge. There is burning pain and tenesmus of the anus. Back pain after passing stool. Thirsty and shivering after passing stool.