Amoebiasis
Find everything you are looking for about (Amebiasis) on this page.
What is Amebiasis?
Amebiasis is a parasitic infection that affects the digestive system, specifically the large intestine. A person becomes infected with the amoeba parasite through exposure to contaminated water, food, and other factors.
People frequently contract it when traveling to tropical or crowded areas.
What are the symptoms of Amebiasis?
- Some people may be infected without showing any symptoms. Symptoms of amebiasis may begin to appear within four weeks of infection and include the following:
- Abdominal cramps.
- Diarrhea (sometimes accompanied by blood).
- Nausea.
- Loss of appetite.
- Weight loss.
- Abdominal gas.
Rectal pain during bowel movements.
- In severe cases, symptoms may include the following:
- Abdominal pain.
- Blood during bowel movements.
- Elevated temperature.
Vomiting.
What are the causes of Amebiasis?
- Amebiasis is a common and contagious condition, especially in tropical areas, and can be contracted through:
- Contaminated food and beverages.
- Traveling to places with poor sanitation.
- Living with others in environments with unhealthy conditions.
Coming into contact with the mouth or rectal area of another person infected with amoeba.
How is Amebiasis diagnosed?:
- The doctor will take the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination. They may also request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Microscopic stool sample examination (the doctor may request samples on different days because the parasite may not show up in every sample).
Laboratory blood test.
What are the treatment methods for Amebiasis?
- Treatment involves several procedures or as needed, and may include the following:
Antibiotics are prescribed by the doctor based on the symptoms presented by the patient, as well as fluid replacement if dehydration symptoms are present.
How can you prevent Amebiasis?
- Prevention starts by maintaining personal hygiene and washing hands first, in addition to:
- Ensure you drink clean water and avoid areas with contaminated water.
- Drinking water from clean bottles.
- Avoiding raw foods.
Washing fruits and vegetables well before eating.
What are the complications of Amebiasis?
- Amebiasis may cause complications, particularly if left untreated, and these may include:
- Liver abscesses.
- Anemia.
- Presence of amoeba in the lungs (rarely).
- Inflammation of the abdominal wall membrane.
The spread of the parasite from the blood to other organs, such as the liver, brain, and other symptoms.
When should you see a doctor?
If any of the symptoms mentioned above appear, consult your doctor immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific measure to follow before or during travel to avoid contracting amebiasis?
