Dysentery: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, And Home Remedies

Introduction

Dysentery is an intestinal infection, typically involving inflammation of the colon and resulting in bloody diarrhoea. It is most commonly caused by bacteria such as Shigella or parasites like Entamoeba histolytica¹. While mild cases may resolve within three to seven days, untreated amoebic dysentery can persist for longer periods and potentially become chronic. Common symptoms include severe abdominal pain, diarrhoea (often containing blood or mucus), nausea, vomiting, high fever (particularly in bacterial cases), and dehydration. If left untreated, dehydration may lead to serious complications such as electrolyte imbalances, hypovolaemic shock, or even death.  

Dysentery is highly contagious and spreads through the faecal-oral route, typically via contaminated food, water, or surfaces, and poor hygiene practices. Although it does not usually transmit between humans and animals, shared utensils or use of unclean bathroom facilities can facilitate rapid human-to-human spread. Prevention relies heavily on good hygiene, such as thorough handwashing, drinking safe water, and avoiding raw or unwashed food in unsanitary conditions. If symptoms like persistent bloody diarrhoea, fever, or signs of dehydration occur, it is vital to seek medical attention promptly.  

Treatment focuses on rehydration and, in more severe cases, specific antibiotics or antiparasitic medication. However, antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve to survive exposure to treatment can make infections more difficult to manage, underscoring the need for responsible antibiotic use. 

Types Of Dysentery

There are two types of dysentery, namely, amoebic dysentery and bacillary dysentery and each has its own effects on an individual. Here are some of the types of dysentery along with their effects. 

1. Amoebic Dysentery 

Amoebic dysentery is caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with Entamoeba histolytica cysts. This parasitic infection primarily affects the colon and can lead to a range of painful and distressing symptoms. Individuals with amoebic dysentery typically experience severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and frequent bowel movements. The stools are often painful to pass and may contain both blood and mucus, indicating inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal lining. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent complications and support recovery².  

2. Bacillary Dysentery 

Bacillary dysentery is a bacterial infection, most commonly caused by Shigella species, and can be serious if left untreated. Symptoms typically appear within one to three days of exposure to the bacteria, usually through contaminated food, water, or poor hygiene. The illness often begins with diarrhoea, which may progress to include blood and mucus in the stools. Additional symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, high fever, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, however, the symptoms are mild and can be managed at home with rest, adequate hydration, and proper nutrition. Nevertheless, if symptoms worsen or dehydration occurs, prompt medical attention is essential³. 

Causes Of Dysentery

Dysentery is most commonly caused by bacterial infections, including Shigella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Campylobacter, and Salmonella. These harmful bacteria affect the intestines and can spread rapidly through contaminated food, water, or poor hygiene. The specific bacteria responsible can vary by region. For instance, Shigella is a major cause of dysentery in Latin America, while Campylobacter is more frequently associated with cases in Southeast Asia, including India. Less commonly, dysentery may be caused by intestinal parasites or chemical irritants. It is also important to note that dysentery, particularly when caused by Shigella, can be transmitted through unprotected anal-oral sexual contact with an infected person. Understanding these causes is essential for prevention and early treatment¹.  

Symptoms Of Dysentery

Dysentery can present with a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe, potentially life-threatening illness. It is typically caused by consuming contaminated food or water due to poor sanitation and hygiene, and is more prevalent in developing and low-resource settings. 

The symptoms vary depending on the severity of the infection, but early recognition and treatment are essential for recovery. Below are some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with dysentery¹:

• Abdominal pain and cramping 
• Diarrhoea, which may become bloody or contain mucus 
• Loss of appetite 
• High fever (often above 38.9°C or 102°F) 
• Abdominal tenderness or discomfort, even with light pressure 
• Bloating or a feeling of fullness 
• A frequent, urgent need to pass stools (tenesmus), often with little output 
• Unintended weight loss 
• Severe headache 

Note: In untreated cases, symptoms such as fever, cramps, and tenesmus may last 4 to 8 days. With appropriate treatment, most bacterial or amoebic dysentery cases resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. Rarely, in cases of untreated or complicated amoebiasis, symptoms may persist longer. While symptoms like increased gas are sometimes reported, they are not considered hallmark features of dysentery. 

Diagnosing Dysentery

If you or your child is showing symptoms of dysentery, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible. When left untreated, dysentery can lead to dehydration, which may pose serious health risks, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. During a medical consultation, the doctor will typically begin by reviewing your symptoms. If dysentery is suspected, a stool sample will be requested for laboratory analysis^1,4. This sample may be examined using microscopy, culture techniques, or antigen testing, depending on whether a bacterial or amoebic infection is suspected. Identifying the exact cause of dysentery, such as Shigella, Entamoeba histolytica, or Campylobacter is essential for selecting the most effective treatment⁵. 

Treatment Of Dysentery

Treatment for dysentery depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. Individuals with mild cases of Shigella infection (shigellosis) are usually treated with increased fluid intake to prevent dehydration. In more severe cases, antibiotics may be prescribed. However, some strains of Shigella have developed resistance to commonly used antibiotics, a condition known as antibiotic resistance. If you have been prescribed antibiotics but your symptoms persist beyond six days, it is important to consult your doctor for further evaluation, which may include blood tests¹. 

Amoebic dysentery, caused by Entamoeba histolytica, is typically treated with antiparasitic medications such as metronidazole or tinidazole². These drugs target and kill the invasive parasites. In many cases, treatment is followed by a luminal agent to eliminate any remaining cysts in the intestines. For patients with severe symptoms or significant dehydration, intravenous fluids may be administered to maintain hydration and support recovery. 

Home Remedies for Treating Dysentery

The primary cause of dysentery is poor and it is highly contagious (capable of spreading through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces). Preventing this disease requires a combination of proper sanitation, food safety, and basic home care. Alongside medical treatment, certain traditional remedies may support mild cases and help recovery. These include drinking buttermilk with a pinch of rock salt, consuming fresh orange juice daily, making a milkshake using pomegranate peel, and drinking lemon juice⁶. Eating bananas may help normalise bowel movements, while a mixture of milk, honey, and lemon can be soothing. Black tea, which contains natural tannins, may also provide relief from intestinal discomfort⁷. However, these home remedies should complement, not replace, professional medical advice.

Th following simple yet effective practices can significantly reduce the risk of dysentery and protect both individual and family health: 

• Maintain strict hygiene at all times. 
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, after using the toilet, before handling or consuming food⁸. 
• Use hand sanitiser only when soap and water are unavailable (avoid excessive use)⁹. 
• Drink only safe water – Prefer bottled mineral water or boil tap water for 10 to 15 minutes before drinking. 
• Ensure all food is well-cooked, as well as prepared and stored hygienically. 

Complications Caused by Dysentery

If left untreated, dysentery can lead to serious health complications, some of which may be life-threatening. As a highly contagious disease primarily spreading through the faecal-oral route via contaminated hands, food, or water, it requires early attention. Below are some potential complications associated with untreated dysentery: 

1. Dehydration 

• Persistent diarrhoea and vomiting can lead to severe fluid and electrolyte loss. 
• This is especially dangerous in children under the age of five and can become life-threatening if not promptly managed¹. 

2. Postinfectious Arthritis 

• Some individuals may develop joint pain and inflammation following dysentery, a condition known as postinfectious arthritis. 
• This can result in considerable discomfort, particularly in the knees, ankles, or wrists¹. 

3. Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) 

• Certain strains of Shigella bacteria can cause HUS, a serious condition where damaged red blood cells block the kidneys. 
• Symptoms may include anaemia, reduced platelet count, and acute kidney failure. 
• Though rare, seizures may occur in children due to high fever or severe electrolyte imbalances resulting from dehydration¹.

Diet for Individuals with Dysentery

Dysentery is a gastrointestinal illness often caused by bacterial or parasitic infections, and maintaining a proper, well-regulated diet plays a vital role in supporting recovery. Patients should follow dietary advice provided by their healthcare professional and avoid foods that may worsen symptoms or irritate the digestive system. It is strongly recommended to consume only home-cooked, hygienic meals during this time. 

Recommended Foods During Dysentery 

Patients recovering from dysentery should consume light, easily digestible meals that help soothe the digestive tract and prevent further irritation. Below is a list of suitable foods: 

• Potatoes (peeled) 
• Fruits like apple and banana 
• Boiled rice¹⁰ 
• Brown bread with jam or honey (butter or margarine should be avoided) 
• Plain salad 
• Boiled vegetables 
• Yoghurt 
• Fruit juices of oranges or pomegranate 
• Plain biscuits 
• Green tea and clear soup 

Foods to Avoid During Dysentery

• Avoid dairy products like whole fat milk, heavy cream, cheese, butter, and ice cream¹¹. 
• Spicy food items, deep-fried food or oily and greasy dishes can trigger bowel irritation and slow down recovery¹¹.  
• Processed food items made from refined flour (like pasta and pizza) and high sugar content foods (like cakes, pastries, scones and doughnuts) can cause dysentery symptoms to worsen. 
• Citrus fruits and fruits with high fibre content are known to increase the effects of dysentery. 
• Red meat and raw vegetables may worsen symptoms of dysentery. 
• Alcoholic beverages, high caffeine content drinks like strong coffee, milk tea, and caffeinated beverages like colas and sodas slows down recovery process. ¹ 
• Nuts, multigrain bread and cereals, vegetables like beans, broccoli, peas, cabbage, and cauliflower may worsen symptoms of dysentery. 

Conclusion

Dysentery is a serious yet preventable illness that demands timely medical attention and proper hygiene practices. Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and a supportive diet are key to effective recovery and avoiding complications. With awareness and caution, both individuals and communities can significantly reduce the risk and impact of this disease. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References 

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2. Dans LF, Martínez EG. Amoebic dysentery. BMJ Clin Evid. 2007 Jan 1;2007:0918. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2943803/  

3. Nicolas X, Granier H, Le Guen P. Shigellose ou dysenterie bacillaire [Shigellosis or bacillary dysentery]. Presse Med. 2007 Nov;36(11 Pt 2):1606-18. French. doi: 10.1016/j.lpm.2007.03.001. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17399943/  

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6. Zhao SS, Ma DX, Zhu Y, Zhao JH, Zhang Y, Chen JQ, Sheng ZL. Antidiarrheal effect of bioactivity-guided fractions and bioactive components of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peels. Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2018 Jul;30(7):e13364. doi: 10.1111/nmo.13364. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29717519/   

7. Doustfatemeh S, Imanieh MH, Mohagheghzade A, Zarshenas MM, Torkamani Z, Yousefi G, Farahangiz S, Salehi A. The Effect of Black Tea (Camellia sinensis (L) Kuntze) on Pediatrics With Acute Nonbacterial Diarrhea: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2017 Jan;22(1):114-119. doi: 10.1177/2156587216654600. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5871214/  

8. Mbakaya BC, Lee PH, Lee RLT. Hand hygiene interventions reduce diarrhoea and respiratory infections by 42–48% in schoolage children in developing settings. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2017;14(4):371. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/14/4/371  

9. Henriey D, Delmont J, Gautret P. Does the use of alcohol-based hand gel sanitizer reduce travellers’ diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset?: A preliminary survey. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2014 Sep-Oct;12(5):494-8. doi: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2014.07.002. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25065273/ 

10. Nemeth V, Pfleghaar N. Diarrhea [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan– [updated 2022 Nov 21; cited 2025 Jun 12]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/ 

11. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Diarrhea [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): NIDDK, NIH; [cited 2025 Jun 12]. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea/eating-diet-nutrition 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof. 

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