DEFINITION
What Is Amebiasis?
Amebiasis is an infection of the colon and sometimes an infection of the liver. The parasite that causes amebiasis is Entamoeba histolytica. Our body has 8 types of amoeba, only Entamoeba histolytica which causes Amebiasis.
How Common Is Amebiasis?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 10% of the world's population is infected with amebiasis. In addition, Amebiasis usually occurs in the tropics, especially areas where you live that are not clean. Amebiasis occurs in women and men of all ages. Always consult your doctor for more information.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Amebiasis?
Amebiasis symptoms usually appear after 2-4 weeks of infection, or it may take several months to detect the disease.
Common symptoms of amebiasis include:
- Diarrhea (10 to 12 times per day)
- Diarrhea with blood
- Cramps in the stomach
- Dispose of thick water
- Gas in stomach
Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Backache
- Fatigue
There are some signs and symptoms that may not be listed above. If you are concerned about one symptom, please consult your doctor.
When Should I See A Doctor?
Call your doctor or go to the hospital if you have the following symptoms:
- High fever
- Diarrhea with bleeding
- Stomach ache
- Pain in right side of stomach
- Jaundice
REASONS
What Causes Amebiasis?
Amebiasis is caused by a parasite called Entamoeba histolytica. This parasite is the main cause of diarrhea, damage to the stomach and digestive tract. Parasites infect the body when you drink unhygienic water, or eat contaminated food.
Flies, mosquitoes and other insects are also at risk of being carriers of parasites. Amebiasis can be spread from anal intercourse with an infected person.
RISK FACTORS
What Increases My Risk For Amebiasis?
There are many risk factors for Amebiasis, such as:
- Traveling to places with poor hygiene conditions
- Sexual intercourse
- People with weak immune systems or suffering from other chronic diseases
TREATMENT
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What Are My Treatment Options For Amebiasis?
Treatment for Amebiasis must be through a sufficient prescription from your doctor. After treatment, the doctor will examine your stool to make sure that the parasites have been removed from the body.
The recommended drugs can be Metronidazole and Iodoquinol. However, these medications have side effects such as nausea, headaches, dry mouth, or dark urine. If you are taking these medications, you should not drink alcohol during treatment.
You should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. In some cases, you will need a water transfer.
Entamoeba infection in the digestive tract will disappear within two weeks. If histolytica moves to other organs, you still have the ability to fully recover if treated properly and correctly.
However, without the intervention of doctors, patients infected with Entamoeba are at risk of dying. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), every year 70,000 people die from amebiasis.
What Are The Usual Tests For Amebiasis?
Your doctor will diagnose Amebiasis by examining your medical history in person. At the same time doctors need at least 3 stool samples to examine for parasites through a microscope.
Doctors may use a colonoscopy or stigma colonoscopy as a sample if other tests are unclear.
HOME REMEDIES
What Are Some Lifestyle Changes Or Home Remedies That Can Be Done To Treat Amebiasis?
The following lifestyle and home treatments can help you deal with Amebiasis:
- Take medicines according to the dosage and cooperate with the doctor in the treatment process
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration or diarrhea
- Diligently wash your hands with soap and warm water to prevent parasitic infections
- Make sure all food is cooked before eating
- Ensure healthy sexual relations (use condoms)
If you have further questions, please contact your doctor to understand the best solution for you.
Thanks for the information