Symptoms of Diphtheria


Diphtheria 

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the throat and nose but can also involve the skin and other parts of the body. The infection can lead to serious complications, including difficulty breathing, heart failure, and nerve damage. While diphtheria was once a common cause of death in children, it is now rare in countries with widespread vaccination.




Symptoms of Diphtheria


The symptoms usually appear 2-5 days after exposure and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:


Sore throat


Fever


Swollen glands (in the neck)


Weakness or fatigue


Difficulty swallowing


Hoarseness or difficulty speaking


Thick gray or white patches in the throat or nose (a characteristic feature of diphtheria, forming a "pseudomembrane" which can block airways and cause breathing difficulty)


Nasal discharge that may be blood-tinged or have a foul odor


Skin ulcers (in cutaneous diphtheria)



How Diphtheria Spreads


Diphtheria spreads through:


Direct contact with respiratory secretions from an infected person (e.g., saliva, coughing, or sneezing).


Touching contaminated objects or surfaces (like tissues or clothing).


Close contact with someone who has respiratory diphtheria or skin diphtheria.




Complications of Diphtheria


If untreated, diphtheria can lead to severe complications:


Airway obstruction: The thick membrane in the throat can block the airway, making breathing difficult.


Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure.


Nerve damage: Nerve inflammation (called polyneuritis) can cause paralysis, especially in the throat, and in severe cases, affect the respiratory muscles.


Kidney failure: Due to complications like sepsis or heart failure.




Diagnosis of Diphtheria


Diphtheria is diagnosed through:


Clinical examination: Observation of symptoms, especially the presence of a pseudomembrane in the throat.


Laboratory tests: A throat culture or PCR test to identify Corynebacterium diphtheriae.


Blood tests: To detect complications or confirm bacterial infection.




Treatment of Diphtheria


Immediate treatment is essential to prevent complications. The standard treatment includes:


1. Diphtheria antitoxin: To neutralize the toxins produced by the bacteria.



2. Antibiotics: Penicillin or erythromycin to kill the bacteria.



3. Supportive care: For breathing difficulties, oxygen, or mechanical ventilation may be required if the airway is obstructed.



4. Monitoring for complications: Cardiac or neurological complications may require further medical management.




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