Overview
Dysentery is an intestinal infection that causes diarrhea with blood or mucus, along with painful cramps and a frequent, urgent need to pass stools. It spreads through contaminated food and water and is common where sanitation is poor, especially in the monsoon. Most cases are treated with fluids and, when needed, specific antibiotics or antiparasitic medicines. As with all diarrhea, preventing dehydration with ORS is central to care.
Symptoms
- Diarrhea with blood or mucus
- Painful stomach cramps
- A frequent, urgent need to pass stools
- Fever
- Weakness from fluid loss
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for diarrhea with blood or mucus, high fever, or signs of dehydration, and keep sipping ORS.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Signs of severe dehydration, high fever, heavy bleeding in stools, or drowsiness — seek care immediately
Causes
Bacteria such as Shigella, or the amoeba parasite, spread through contaminated food, water and poor hand hygiene.