Shigellosis is an intestinal disease caused by the shigella family of bacteria. There are several kinds of shigella bacteria, but shigella flexerni, also known as group B, accounts for about one-third of all shigella infections in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Shigella infections are contracted through direct contact with infected stool, ingesting contaminated foods or by drinking or swimming in contaminated waters. The infection usually occurs within a day or two of exposure and resolves in five to seven days.
Bloody Diarrhea
Bloody diarrhea is the benchmark symptom of a shigella infection. The shigella flexneri bacteria produce toxins that attack the lining of the large intestine. The toxins can cause sores on the intestinal wall that can become ulcers, which is what causes the blood in the stool. The diarrhea may also be watery and contain a lot of mucus.
Abdominal Cramps
Those suffering from a shigella infection may also experience abdominal cramps that may be moderate to severe. As the toxins produced by the bacteria attack the intestines, the intestines can become inflamed and swollen, resulting in the abdominal cramps.
Nausea and Vomiting
Some patients infected with shigella flexerni may feel nausea that may lead to vomiting.
Fever
Fever is a common symptom and occurs in response to the body trying to fight off the shigella bacteria that is attacking the intestines. The fever may become high and if not treated can lead to a stiff neck, headache or extreme tiredness and eventually result in confusion or even seizures.
Reiter Syndrome
Infection with shigella flexerni may have long-term effects. About 2 percent of those infected, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will develop what is known as post-infectious arthritis, or Reiter Syndrome. A person with this condition will exhibit symptoms including pain in their joints, irritation of the eyes and painful urination. This condition can last for several months, or even become chronic, lasting for years.
Dehydration
Dehydration, the loss of fluids within the body, is also a concern with shigella infection. Because the diarrhea is watery and frequent the body loses a lot of fluid. If vomiting is also present, the risk of dehydration is even higher. Dehydration can cause dizziness, weakness, muscle spasms and even kidney damage.
Member Comments