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Diphtheria, its symptoms (part 1)


Bangladeshpost
Published : 02 Mar 2022 08:45 PM

Diphtheria (dif-THEER-e-uh) is a serious bacterial infection that usually affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Diphtheria is extremely rare in the United States and other developed countries thanks to widespread vaccination against the disease. However, many countries with limited health care or vaccination options still experience high rates of diphtheria.

Diphtheria can be treated with medications. But in advanced stages, diphtheria can damage the heart, kidneys and nervous system. Even with treatment, diphtheria can be deadly, especially in children.

Symptoms:

Diphtheria signs and symptoms usually begin 2 to 5 days after a person becomes infected. Signs and symptoms may include:

• A thick, gray membrane covering the throat and tonsils

• A sore throat and hoarseness

• Swollen glands (enlarged lymph nodes) in the neck

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing

• Nasal discharge

• Fever and chills

• Tiredness

In some people, infection with diphtheria-causing bacteria causes only a mild illness — or no obvious signs and symptoms at all. Infected people who stay unaware of their illness are known as carriers of diphtheria. They're called carriers because they can spread the infection without being sick themselves.

Courtesy: Mayo Clinic