Definition

Amoebic dysentery is an intestinal illness associated with stomach pain, bloody stools, and fever. This condition can be treated.

Causes

Amoebic dysentery is caused by a parasite called Entamoeba histolytica. You may develop amoebic dysentery if you:

• Put something in your mouth that has touched the stool of a person infected with E histolytica
• Swallow water or food that has been contaminated with E histolytica
• Touch cysts (eggs) from E histolytica -contaminated surfaces and bring them to your mouth

Digestive Pathway

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Risk Factors

Factors that increase your risk of getting amoebic dysentery include:

• Living in or traveling to developing countries, places that have poor sanitary conditions, or tropical or subtropical areas
• Living in institutions
• Having anal-sexual intercourse
• Household contact

Symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to amoebic dysentery. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions.

• Loose stools
• Bloody stools
• Nausea
• Weight loss
• Stomach pain
• Fever
• Pain on your right, upper side

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Your doctor may need tests of your bodily fluids and waste products. This can be done with:

• Blood tests
• Stool samples

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Several antibiotics are available to treat amoebic dysentery. Probiotics may also be helpful.

Prevention

To help reduce your chances of getting amoebic dysentery, take the following steps when traveling to a country that has poor sanitary conditions:

• Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least one minute
• Do not eat fresh fruit or vegetables that you do not peel yourself
• Do not eat or drink unpasteurized milk, cheese, or dairy products
• Do not eat or drink anything sold by street vendors