Amoebiasis

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Description


Introduction

Amebiasis is an infectious disease caused by a parasitic one-celled microorganism (protozoan) called Entamoebahistolytica.


Amebiasis, also known as amebic dysentery, is one of the most common parasitic diseases occurring in humans, with anestimated 500 million new cases each year. It occurs most frequently in tropical and subtropical areas where livingconditions are crowded, with inadequate Sanitation.


Causes

Amoebiasis is caused by a protozoa and is usually spread by contaminated water or from food served by hands that are contaminated. It can also be spread to additional organs like the brain or the liver by invading the blood system of the intestines. Carriers who are asymptomatic can pass cysts in faeces. Contaminated drinking water can also spread this infection. This infection can also spread by oral-anal contact.


Common causes as well as risk factors for Amoebiasis consist of:


Consuming food that is contaminated

Anal or direct contact from person to person

Unhygienic conditions

Poor sanitation areas

Eating vegetable and fruits which have been contaminated.


Symptoms:

Abdominal cramps

Diarrhoea

Passing of 3 -8 semi-formed stools each day

Passing of stools that are soft together with mucus and occasionally blood

Gas in the intestines

Fatigue

Rectal pain with bowel movement

Weight loss without trying

Abdominal tenderness

Stools that are bloody

Passing of liquid stools with blood streaks

Passing of 10-20- stools each day

Vomiting

Fever.