Author: Jamna Herbal

Difference Between Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery

Difference Between Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery

It can be quite painful to have dysentery, a sickness marked by violent diarrhoea that frequently includes blood and mucus. However, did you know that there are two primary forms of dysentery, each with unique causes and methods of treatment? This article explores the difference between amoebic and bacillary dysentery, giving you the tools you need to effectively manage this painful infection of the stomach. 

What Is Dysentery?

Let's settle on a general definition of amoebic and bacillary dysentery before getting into the details. Derived from the Greek words "dys" (bad) and "enteron" (intestine), dysentery is an inflammatory condition of the intestines that causes a variety of unpleasant symptoms. Usually, these consist of:

  • Bloody Diarrhea

Stools containing blood are a common sign of both bacillary and amoebic dysentery, and they frequently contain mucus and pus as well.

  • Stomach Cramps

Both forms are characterised by intense and frequent stomach pain, which is both uncomfortable and distressing.

  • Dehydration 

If treatment is not received, severe diarrhoea and vomiting can cause fast fluid loss and dehydration, which can be fatal.

  • Nausea and Fever

Both bacillary and amoebic dysentery can cause these symptoms, albeit they can differ in intensity and duration.

Comparing Bacillary vs. Amoebic Dysentery: Exposing the Root Causes

Let's now introduce the perpetrators responsible for each sort of dysentery:

  • Amoebic Dysentery

-       Reason
Entamoeba histolytica, or E. histolytica, is a tiny parasite.

-       Transmission
Consuming food or water that has been tainted or contains parasite cysts, or eggs.

-       Signs and Symptoms
Gradual start, frequently accompanied by headaches, exhaustion, weight loss, and bloody diarrhoea.

-       The Diagnosis
Stool analysis to find the parasite's trophozoites, active form or amoebic cysts. In extreme situations, imaging and blood testing may be employed.

-       Treatment
Treatment consists of medication to destroy the parasite and then more medication to get rid of cysts and stop the infection from spreading.

-       Prevention
Prevention involves maintaining proper hygiene, especially before touching food and after using toilet facilities. This includes often washing your hands with soap and water. drinking clean, treated water and staying away from tainted food. Fruits and vegetables should be well-cleaned before eating.

  • Dysentery Bacillary

-       Cause
Caused by bacteria, primarily those of the Shigella species.

-       Transmission
Human-to-human contact with tainted surfaces, water, or food.

-       Signs and Symptoms
abrupt onset, accompanied by vomiting, cramping in the abdomen, fever, and severe diarrhoea.

-       The Diagnosis
To pinpoint the precise bacteria causing the infection, a stool culture is used.
Antibiotic therapy is used to get rid of the bacteria. Rehydration therapy is essential, particularly in severe situations.

-       Prevention
keeping oneself clean by often washing one's hands with soap and water, specifically before approaching food and after using the restroom. drinking clean, purified water and staying away from tainted food. cooking food to a high degree, especially meat and fish.

Major Differences in Brief

Amoebic Dysentery Vs Bacillary Dysentery:



Gut-Healthy Self-Care Practices

In addition to getting medical help as needed, consider the following self-care advice to maintain gut health:

  • Maintain Proper Hygiene

Before making food and after visiting the toilets, thoroughly clean your hands.

  • Consume Clean Water

To prevent contamination, drink purified or boiling water.

  • Clean veggies And fruits

Thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits before eating.

  • Sustain A Nutritious Diet

Make healthy meal choices that are high in fibre and probiotics.

  • Reduce Tension

Long-term stress can damage the intestinal lining. Try some yoga or meditation to help you relax.

Differentiating between Amoebic  and Bacillary Dysentery

Although the symptoms of amoebic and bacillary dysentery are similar, the underlying causes are different. Finding the pathogen causing the infection is an essential part of differentiation since it helps determine the best course of action for therapy.

In each scenario, a medical practitioner might carry out laboratory analyses, including stool testing, to determine the causing factor. Microscopic analysis of stool samples aids in differentiating between Shigella bacteria in bacillary dysentery and Entamoeba histolytica cysts in amoebic dysentery.

Prevention Techniques

Regardless of the exact kind, maintaining proper hygiene and forming healthy eating and drinking habits are key to preventing dysentery. One of the most important things you can do to lower the risk of dysentery is to wash your hands well, especially before touching food or eating. You should also avoid drinking contaminated water and eating undercooked food. You can also try our Aam doshantak tablet or Aam doshantak syrup which is beneficial for preventing dysentary. 

To Sum Up

In conclusion, a precise diagnosis and suitable therapy depend on knowing the distinction between amoebic and bacillary dysentery. Although severe abdominal pain, bloody diarrhoea, and fever are frequent symptoms of both illnesses, the microorganisms responsible for amoebic dysentery and bacillary dysentery, respectively, are different. By recognising the differences between the two and taking preventative action, we may support the international endeavour to lower the incidence of dysentery and its negative effects on public health.