Dysentery: Meaning, Diagnosis and Overview

What is Dysentery?

Dysentery is bloody diarrhea, i.e. any diarrhoeal episode in which the loose or watery stools contain visible red blood. This is the infection of the intestine.

Recovery Time

In the vast majority of cases, the illness will resolve within a week.

Diagnosis

The doctor usually will ask the patient about symptoms and carry out a physical examination. A stool sample may be ordered.  In rare cases, if symptoms are severe, other diagnostic tests such as an ultrasound scan or an endoscopy may be recommended.

FAQs prepared by doctor

1. What is dysentery?
Dysentery is bloody diarrhea, i.e. any diarrhoeal episode in which the loose or watery stools contain visible red blood. This is the infection of the intestine.

2. What are the symptoms of dysentery?
The symptoms of dysentery bear the signs of dehydration, abdominal pain associated with fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, watery diarrhea, which can contain blood, mucus or pus. There could be painful passing of stools.

3. What are the foods to be taken during dysentery?
Foods to be taken are Potatoes (without the skin), White bread, Bananas, Boiled rice, Apple, Toast with honey, jam or vegemite (no butter or margarine), Plain Biscuits (e.g. Sao with the above spreads), Boiled vegetables, Clear soup, Plain salad, Yoghurt, and cheese, Drink fruit juices such as orange and pomegranate juices.

4. What to do when one is suffering from dysentery? 
Drink plenty of fluids and ORS. Oral rehydration solution(ORS) is life savior as it replenishes the electrolytes in body. Its prepared by, in a glass of boiled and cool water, add a pinch of salt and one to two spoonful of sugar. This solution should be taken as many times as possible during acute symptoms.
If your rectal area becomes sore because of frequent bowel movements take warm baths. Afterward, pat the area dry (do not rub) with a clean, soft towel.

5. When shall one consult a doctor?
One shall consult a doctor when one is suffering from watery diarrhea that contains blood or mucus, nausea or vomiting (feeling or being sick), severe abdominal pain or cramps associated with fever chills and weight loss or bleeding from your rectum.

 
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