Treatment Options for Acute Dysentery

Acute dysentery is a severe intestinal infection caused by Shigella bacteria, also known as bacillary dysentery. This condition is characterized by a sudden onset and intense symptoms, often including high fever, abdominal cramps, frequent passage of stools containing mucus and blood, and a persistent urge to defecate even when the bowels are empty.

Recognizing the Symptoms and Diagnosis

Patients suffering from acute dysentery typically experience a range of gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms. These include fever, severe abdominal pain, and diarrhea mixed with blood and mucus. A clinical diagnosis can be supported by laboratory tests such as a complete blood count (CBC), which often reveals elevated white blood cell and neutrophil levels. Additionally, markers of inflammation like C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin are usually significantly increased, indicating a bacterial infection.

Effective Medical Treatments

Accurate diagnosis often involves stool culture tests, which can isolate the causative bacteria, such as Shigella species. Once confirmed, treatment should begin promptly to reduce the risk of complications and shorten the duration of illness.

Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics are the cornerstone of treatment for bacterial dysentery. Commonly prescribed options include fluoroquinolones such as norfloxacin (Floxin), ciprofloxacin, and levofloxacin hydrochloride. Alternatively, cephalosporin antibiotics like cefixime (Suprax) are also effective in combating the infection. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and duration to ensure complete eradication of the bacteria and prevent antibiotic resistance.

Supportive Care and Symptom Relief

In addition to antibiotics, other supportive treatments play a crucial role in managing symptoms and promoting recovery. For example, loperamide may be used to reduce bowel motility and ease diarrhea, while smectite powder helps protect the intestinal lining and absorb toxins. Oral rehydration solutions are also vital for preventing or correcting dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and acid-base disturbances caused by excessive fluid loss.

Prevention and Recovery Tips

Proper hydration, rest, and a bland diet can support the healing process. Preventive measures such as maintaining good personal hygiene, drinking clean water, and consuming well-cooked food are essential to avoid reinfection or spreading the disease to others. Individuals experiencing persistent symptoms should seek medical attention promptly to avoid complications such as severe dehydration, sepsis, or intestinal perforation.