What are the Symptoms of Amoeba?
October 14, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Amoebiasis, an infection caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica, can vary in severity and symptoms. Some individuals may carry the parasite without showing any symptoms (asymptomatic carriers), while others may experience a range of symptoms. Common symptoms of amoebiasis may include:
- Diarrhea:
- Loose stools or diarrhea, which may be watery, bloody, or contain mucus.
- Abdominal Pain and Cramping:
- Stomach cramps and tenderness in the lower abdomen.
- Frequent Bowel Movements:
- Urgent need to pass stools and increased frequency of bowel movements.
- Fatigue:
- Generalized tiredness and lack of energy.
- Fever:
- Low-grade fever, especially during acute phases of the infection.
- Nausea and Vomiting:
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting, which may be persistent.
- Loss of Appetite:
- Decreased desire to eat, resulting in reduced food intake.
- Weight Loss:
- Unintentional weight loss, often due to a combination of decreased appetite and diarrhea.
- Bloated Feeling:
- Feeling of bloating or fullness in the abdomen.
- Dehydration:
- Signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, increased thirst, and dark-colored urine.
- Rectal Pain:
- Discomfort or pain in the rectum during bowel movements.
- Passage of Blood and Mucus:
- Passage of blood or mucus in the stool, a characteristic feature of amoebic dysentery.
- Liver Abscess (In Severe Cases):
- In severe cases, the parasite can invade the liver, leading to symptoms such as right upper abdominal pain, tenderness, and an enlarged liver.
- Jaundice (In Severe Cases):
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) may occur if the infection affects the liver.
It’s important to note that amoebiasis can range from mild to severe, and severe cases can lead to complications if the parasite spreads beyond the intestines. In some individuals, the parasite can invade other organs, such as the liver or lungs, causing abscesses or other serious issues.
If you suspect you have amoebiasis or are experiencing persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment often involves antibiotics to eliminate the parasite and manage symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization and additional interventions may be necessary.