Amoebiosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Amoebiosis is an infection caused by a group of microscopic parasites called amoebas. Amoebas are single-celled organisms that can live in the human intestine and cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes serious complications. Amoebiosis is also known as amebiasis or amoebic dysentery.
Amoebiosis is more common in tropical and subtropical regions where sanitation and hygiene are poor. It can also be transmitted through contaminated food or water, or by direct contact with an infected person or animal. Amoebiosis can affect anyone, but some people are more at risk, such as travelers, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
Causes of Amoebiosis
The most common cause of amoebiosis is a species of amoeba called Entamoeba histolytica. This parasite can invade the lining of the intestine and cause ulcers, bleeding, and inflammation. Sometimes, it can also spread to other organs, such as the liver, lungs, or brain, and cause life-threatening abscesses.
Not all E. histolytica infections cause symptoms. Some people may carry the parasite without knowing it and act as carriers. Others may have mild or intermittent symptoms that can be mistaken for other digestive disorders. Only about 10 to 20 percent of infected people develop severe amoebiosis that requires medical attention.
Symptoms of Amoebiosis
The symptoms of amoebiosis can vary depending on the severity and location of the infection. The most common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea that may be watery, bloody, or mucus-filled
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
- Dehydration
If the infection spreads to other organs, it can cause additional symptoms, such as:
- Liver pain and tenderness
- Chest pain and cough
- Headache and confusion
- Seizures and coma
Treatment of Amoebiosis
The treatment of amoebiosis depends on the type and severity of the infection. Mild cases may resolve on their own without treatment. However, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and to practice good hygiene to avoid spreading the infection to others.
Severe cases of amoebiosis require medical attention and treatment with antibiotics. The most commonly used antibiotics for amoebiosis are metronidazole and tinidazole. These drugs can kill the parasites in the intestine and in other organs. However, they may also cause side effects, such as nausea, metallic taste, and dark urine.
In some cases, surgery may be needed to drain abscesses or repair perforations in the intestine or other organs. Surgery may also be required to remove parts of the intestine that are severely damaged by the infection.
Prevention of Amoebiosis
The best way to prevent amoebiosis is to avoid exposure to contaminated food or water, especially in areas where the infection is endemic. Some preventive measures include:
- Boiling or filtering water before drinking or using it for cooking or brushing teeth
- Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them raw or peeling them
- Avoiding raw or undercooked meat, fish, eggs, or dairy products
- Avoiding street food or ice made from tap water
- Washing hands with soap and water before eating or after using the toilet
- Using condoms or dental dams during oral or anal sex with someone who may have amoebiosis
- Taking preventive medication if traveling to a high-risk area (consult your doctor before travel)