Is it diarrhea or dysentery?

 

Is it diarrhea or dysentery?

During the monsoon season, we often come across various recommendations regarding health and well-being through newspapers, news channels, and now even on social media platforms. During the monsoon season, several infectious diseases are transmitted through contaminated air and water. One of the most prevalent illnesses during this time is diarrhea or loose motion. People in both rural and urban areas often complain about experiencing diarrhea. However, it is essential to understand the nature of this condition and its symptoms.

Loose motion or diarrhea can be mainly classified into two types. The first type is “Diarrhea” and the second type is “Dysentery”. In the case of diarrhea, a person experiences frequent thin bowel movements throughout the day. This condition is primarily caused by consuming contaminated water or unhygienic food. However, it can also be triggered by certain medications or pills. Diarrhea usually occurs due to bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections. After experiencing diarrhea, common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and the need to pass stools multiple times a day.

On the other hand, dysentery is a more serious form of diarrhea. In which there is inflammation in the inner part of the intestines. Dysentery is also caused by a pathogen such as a bacterial microbes, viruses etc. Distinctive features of dysentery are abdominal pain, mucus or blood in the stool, frequent bowel movements, and pain during bowel movements. Sometimes, people confuse dysentery with diarrhea or loose motion.

A survey indicates that five million people lose their lives annually due to diarrhea. Sadly, most of these deaths occur in impoverished countries, primarily affecting children. Chronic diarrhea can have serious health consequences and can lead to intestinal diseases, esophagitis and other chronic diseases. Diarrhea causes more water to pass out of the large intestine than it can absorb. More water is absorbed in the large intestine than is absorbed daily. Diarrhea occurs when the large intestine's ability to absorb water collapses. Blood sample testing is mandatory in chronic diarrhea as it can be associated with various diseases such as AIDS, diabetes, ulcers and lactose intolerance. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which is characterized by symptoms like feeling very thirsty, having a dry mouth, feeling weak, getting dizzy when standing up, and decreased urination.

In many cases of diarrhea, there is usually no need for diagnosis or treatment unless the condition becomes severe. Home remedies for treating diarrhea include consuming Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), coconut water, electrolyte powders, glucose, and drinking plenty of lukewarm water. Taking saline solution orally or through an intravenously can help restore the body's water and salt balance, but if dehydration persists for a long time, it's important to seek medical attention from a doctor.

If we prepare and consume the mixture recommended by the World Health Organization in the early stages of the disease, taking it gradually and consistently, it is possible to cure the illness with just the first treatment.

The World Health Organization suggests a formula for treating diarrhea: mix three-quarters of a teaspoon of household salt, one teaspoon of baking soda, and the juice of one orange in one liter of water. It is advisable to consult a doctor regarding the appropriate amount and type of food to consume. However, if you suspect that the condition is dysentery rather than diarrhea, it is crucial to seek proper medical treatment in the early stages.

In our country, there are four common methods used for the effective treatment of dysentery, which are similar to the treatment of diarrhea. They are as follows:

Hydration: It is important to prevent dehydration, so oral rehydration solution (ORS) and electrolytes are recommended.

Antibiotics: If dysentery is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin or azithromycin may be prescribed.

Antiparasitic drugs: Specific antiparasitic drugs like metronidazole or tinidazole are used to treat amoebic dysentery, targeting the amoeba causing the infection.

Symptomatic relief: To alleviate abdominal pain and cramps, pain relievers are provided for symptomatic relief.

Diarrhea is primarily caused by infections in the digestive system, consumption of improper food and drinks, or medication intake. Its symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal pain.

On the other hand, dysentery is a type of stomach infection typically caused by bacteria, parasites, or microbes. It is characterized by the presence of blood in the stool, making it watery, foul-smelling, and often accompanied by pain. Medical treatment is necessary for dysentery.

Dysentery or diarrhea poses a significant challenge for the public health sector in India. To prevent these conditions, important measures include ensuring access to clean drinking water, maintaining personal hygiene, consuming clean and properly cooked food, practicing safe food handling, and regularly washing hands with soap. These actions play a crucial role in preventing dysentery or diarrhea.                           -Krushna