Dysentery (Loose Motions): Types, Causes, Symptoms, Risks, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

What is Dysentery?

Dysentery is a common gastrointestinal illness that causes inflammation of the intestines, typically the colon. It leads to severe diarrhea, often accompanied by blood or mucus in the stools. The condition is especially prevalent during the monsoon season, as it spreads through contaminated water and food. That’s why it's important to be extra cautious about what you eat and drink during this time.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dysentery is defined as diarrhea with visible blood in the stool, a sign of intestinal inflammation and infection.

Causes of Dysentery

Dysentery is mainly caused by viral, bacterial, or protozoan infections. The most common reason for its spread is poor sanitation. The infection occurs when a person consumes food or water that has been contaminated by the stool of an infected individual.

These microorganisms live in the intestines and are passed through the stool. When proper hygiene is not maintained, like washing hands after using the toilet or cleaning food surfaces, the infection spreads easily, especially in crowded or flood-affected areas.

Types of Dysentery

There are two main types of dysentery, based on what causes the infection:

1. Bacillary Dysentery
   • Caused by Shigella bacteria
   • More common and often spreads rapidly through contaminated food or water.
   • Symptoms may appear suddenly and can include fever, cramps, and dehydration
2. Amoebic Dysentery (Amoebiasis)
   • Caused by Entamoeba histolytica, a type of parasite (amoeba)
   • More common in tropical regions, including parts of India
   • Symptoms can develop more slowly and may become chronic if untreated

Symptoms of Dysentery

Dysentery symptoms can appear suddenly and may last for five days or longer. Some people experience mild discomfort, while others may suffer from severe diarrhea or vomiting, leading to dehydration.

Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal bloating.
• Nausea, with or without vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue and weakness
• Pain while passing stools
• Watery diarrhea, sometimes with blood, mucus, or pus
• Intermittent constipation or Flatulence

In more severe cases, dehydration may occur, leading to symptoms like:

• Excessive thirst
• Dry mouth or dry skin
• Decreased urine output
• Muscle cramps
• Rapid weight loss

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially blood in your stool or signs of dehydration, seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment can help prevent complications and ensure faster recovery.

Who is at Risk of Dysentery?

You may be at a higher risk of getting dysentery if:

• You drink water from contaminated sources
• You eat food from unhygienic places, such as street vendors
• You consume undercooked or improperly stored food, especially meat, seafood, or salads
• You have a weakened immune system (due to conditions like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or recent organ transplants)
• You are undergoing or have recently completed chemotherapy
• You live in or travel to areas with poor sanitation
• You are visiting developing countries with limited access to clean water and hygiene facilities

Taking precautions while eating, drinking, and traveling can significantly lower your risk of infection.

How is Dysentery Diagnosed?

To diagnose dysentery, your doctor will begin by asking about your symptoms, recent travel history, food and water intake, and any existing health conditions. A physical examination is usually the first step.

If more information is needed to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other causes, your doctor may recommend tests such as:

• Stool Test – To detect bacteria, parasites, or blood in your stool
• Ultrasound – To check for any signs of swelling or complications in the abdomen
• Endoscopy – A special camera test to examine the inside of your intestines, if symptoms persist or are severe

These tests help the doctor identify the cause of the infection and decide the best treatment plan for you.

Dysentery Treatment

Treatment for dysentery depends on the type of infection (bacterial or amoebic) and how severe your symptoms are.

• Mild Bacillary Dysentery (caused by Shigella bacteria):
  In many mild cases, the illness resolves on its own within a week without the need for antibiotics. Your doctor may recommend plenty of rest and fluids to stay hydrated.
• Amoebic Dysentery (caused by Entamoeba histolytica):
  This type usually requires a 7–10 day course of antimicrobial medication like metronidazole (Flagyl). Depending on the severity, your doctor might also prescribe additional medicines such as diloxanide furoate, paromomycin, or iodoquinol to fully clear the infection.
• Rehydration is Essential:
  Regardless of the cause, replacing lost fluids and electrolytes is very important. Drink clean water, oral rehydration solutions (ORS), or electrolyte drinks. In severe cases, IV fluids may be needed.
• Rest and Diet:
  Get adequate rest and eat light, bland foods (such as rice, bananas, toast, and yogurt) while avoiding spicy, oily, or raw foods.

Always complete the full course of medication, even if you start feeling better, to avoid a relapse.

If symptoms worsen or persist for more than a few days, consult a doctor immediately.

Tips to Prevent Dysentery

To reduce your risk of getting dysentery, follow these simple but effective hygiene and safety tips:

• Drink only purified or bottled water, especially when traveling.
• Avoid swallowing water from swimming pools, lakes, or other recreational water sources.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after using the toilet, before eating, and before preparing food.
• Check food hygiene when eating out—avoid unhygienic food stalls and undercooked food.
• Keep your kitchen clean and ensure all food is properly cooked and stored.
• Use hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
• Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with others when sick.

Practicing good hygiene and being mindful about food and water sources can significantly reduce your chances of infection.

Conclusion

Dysentery is a common but potentially serious intestinal infection, often caused by poor sanitation and contaminated food or water. While most cases can be treated effectively with timely medical care, severe infections may lead to dehydration and complications if left unmanaged. Understanding the symptoms, knowing when to seek medical help, and following preventive hygiene practices are key to protecting yourself and others. Always ensure clean drinking water, maintain good hand hygiene, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms persist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is dysentery contagious?
Yes, dysentery can be contagious. It spreads through contaminated food, water, or contact with the stool of an infected person. Practicing good hygiene helps prevent its spread.

2. What is the difference between diarrhea and dysentery?
Diarrhea is frequent loose or watery stools, while dysentery involves diarrhea with blood and mucus due to intestinal inflammation, often caused by infections.

3. How long does dysentery last?
Mild cases may resolve in 3–7 days without treatment, but severe infections, especially amoebic dysentery, can last longer and require medication.

4. Can dysentery cause complications?
Yes, especially in children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems. Severe dehydration, intestinal damage, and liver abscesses (in amoebic cases) are possible complications.

5. Is home treatment enough for dysentery?
For mild cases, staying hydrated and resting may help. However, if symptoms worsen or last more than a few days, medical attention is necessary.

6. What foods should be avoided during dysentery?
Avoid oily, spicy, raw, or uncooked foods. Stick to soft, bland items like rice, toast, bananas, and clear fluids to ease digestion.

7. Can children get dysentery?
Yes, children are especially vulnerable due to their developing immune systems. Prompt medical care is crucial to prevent dehydration and complications.

8. How can I prevent dysentery when traveling?
Drink only bottled or purified water, avoid street food, eat fully cooked meals, and maintain strict hand hygiene.