What is diphtheria?

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A guide to diphtheria

Diphtheria, also known as lymphedema fever, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes. This disease usually affects children and can be spread from person to person through direct contact or through the vapors or respiratory secretions of an infected person.

Diphtheria usually has symptoms such as high fever, sore throat, fatigue, skin rash, and large diphtheria lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and/or paralymphatic areas. Diphtheria can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, arthritis and myocarditis.

To diagnose diphtheria, doctors often rely on symptoms and test results such as blood tests and some other tests to determine whether there is an increase in the number of white blood cells and an increase in CRP (inflammation index).

Diphtheria is usually treated with antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin to kill the bacteria that cause the disease. At the same time, controlling symptoms such as using pain relievers, anti-fever medications and keeping the body rest is necessary. If not treated properly, diphtheria can cause serious complications.

If you or a loved one has symptoms that suggest diphtheria, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of diphtheria

Diphtheria, also known as diphtheria fever, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. The disease is common in rodents such as rats and wild wolves, and can be spread from them to humans through insects such as termites, scorpions or fleas.

The main cause of diphtheria is infection with the Yersinia pestis bacteria. The bacteria can live in the bodies of infected animals and be transmitted from one source to another through insects or contact with the waste of infected animals.

People with diphtheria often get the infection through contact with an animal or another person who is sick. Yersinia pestis bacteria can enter the human body through the following ways:

1. Insects: Insects such as termites, scorpions or fleas can transmit bacteria from an infected source to a healthy person when they bite or touch the skin.
2. Contact with infected animals: People can be infected by contact with animals or the bones, skin, or fur of infected animals. Bacteria can survive in the environment for a short period of time, and people can become infected through direct or indirect contact with this contaminated environment.
3. Contact with infected waste: People can become infected by coming into contact with waste from an infected animal or from another person who is sick. Yersinia pestis bacteria can survive in water, soil, or waste for a short time.

Most importantly, diphtheria is not considered a major risk in modern society, due to good disease control programs and the effective use of antibiotics for treatment.

Signs of diphtheria

Diphtheria has characteristic signs and symptoms. Here are some common signs of diphtheria:

1. High fever: Diphtheria often causes a high and rapid fever. Fever often lasts long and can reach very high levels, often above 38 degrees Celsius.
2. Nodules : One of the most important signs of diphtheria is the development of lymph nodes. Lymphadenoma usually appears within 2-6 days after infection. They often appear in locations such as the neck, armpits, lower legs and the area around the knees. Lymph nodes can be painful and swollen, and may appear red or purple.
3. Pneumonia : In some cases, diphtheria can cause pneumonia. Diphtheria pneumonia often has symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain and severe shortness of breath.
4. Thrombotic disorders : Diphtheria can cause thrombotic disorders, causing symptoms such as pain and swelling in the affected area, usually the legs or arms.
5. Renal system disorders : In severe cases, diphtheria can cause kidney dysfunction, leading to decreased urine output, increased blood pressure, and increased levels of urea and creatinine in the blood.
6. Other symptoms : Some other symptoms that may appear in diphtheria include fatigue, muscle and bone pain, nausea, vomiting, and digestive disorders.

If you suspect you have diphtheria, you should see your doctor for timely diagnosis and treatment. Diphtheria is a serious disease and needs to be treated by medical professionals.

Good foods for diphtheria

When you have diphtheria, maintaining a healthy diet and providing adequate nutrition is important to support recovery. Here are some good foods for diphtheria:

1. Protein-rich foods: Protein is an important factor to support the immune system and muscle recovery. Include in your diet quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, fish, eggs, beans, nuts and nonfat dairy products.
2. Fresh fruits and vegetables : Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables to provide your body with antioxidants and vitamins. They are rich in fiber and nutrients that help strengthen the immune system. Prioritize clean green vegetables such as mustard greens, cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, eggplants and fresh fruits such as oranges, lemons, pineapples, and kiwis.
3. Nuts and seeds: Chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, almonds and sunflower seeds are rich in fiber, protein and healthy fats. They provide energy and support the recovery process.
4. Whole grains and grain products: Whole grains such as barley, oats, and brown rice are rich in fiber and B vitamins. They help maintain energy and provide important nutrients for the body. can.
5. Water : Drink enough water to maintain water balance in the body and aid in the recovery process. Water helps cleanse the body and maintain a well-functioning digestive system.

Also, avoid foods that contain trans fats, high saturated fats, sugar, and foods high in alcohol. At the same time, be sure to follow the instructions and advice of your doctor or nutritionist when treating diphtheria.

Foods to avoid for diphtheria

During treatment of diphtheria, there are some foods that should be avoided to reduce the risk of irritation and negative effects on the body. Here are some foods to avoid when you have diphtheria:

1. Unsafe foods : Avoid consuming unsafe foods, such as undercooked meat, raw seafood, raw eggs, unpasteurized milk, and improperly prepared dairy products.
2. Foods high in saturated fat : Limit consumption of foods high in saturated fat such as fatty red meat, animal fats, butter, cream, cream cheese and processed foods containing fatty oils.
3. Foods containing pure sugar : Avoid consuming foods containing pure sugar, including sweets, soft drinks, candy, ice cream and fast foods. Sugar can weaken the immune system and increase blood sugar levels.
4. Foods containing preservatives and additives : Limit consumption of foods containing preservatives and artificial additives, such as processed foods, fast foods, canned foods, and fried foods.
5. Foods with high salt content: Limit consumption of foods high in salt, including fast food, canned foods, fatty grilled meats, sausages, salty bread and salt-containing condiments.

Also, follow the instructions and advice of your doctor or nutritionist when treating diphtheria, as dietary requirements may vary depending on your specific health condition.

Medicines to treat diphtheria

Diphtheria is an infection caused by a bacteria called Yersinia pestis. To treat diphtheria, the main method is to use antibiotics. Here are some common medications used to treat diphtheria:

1. Antibiotic:
   • Streptomycin: This medication is an antibiotic against Yersinia pestis and is often used as the main treatment for diphtheria.
   • Gentamicin: This is another antibiotic that is effective against Yersinia pestis and is commonly used in the treatment of diphtheria.
2. Other antibiotics: In addition to Streptomycin and Gentamicin, there are several other antibiotics that can be used such as Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, and Chloramphenicol. However, the choice of medication will depend on the patient’s health condition and how effective antibiotics may be against specific bacteria.
3. Treatment support: In addition to antibiotics, patients may also be offered other treatment support measures such as general medical care, keeping the body hydrated, and symptomatic treatment such as fever, pain and inflammation.

It is very important to consult and follow your doctor or healthcare professional’s instructions when treating diphtheria. We recommend that you seek professional medical advice for evaluation and treatment appropriate to your specific health condition.

Oriental medicine and herbs to treat diphtheria

Currently, there is not enough medical evidence to confirm that oriental and herbal medicines can effectively treat diphtheria. Diphtheria is a serious disease and needs to be treated accurately and promptly with antibiotics that are effective against the Yersinia pestis bacteria.

However, in supporting the recovery process and promoting general health, some herbs and traditional medicine methods can be used as part of adjunctive therapy. Here are some herbs and methods that may be considered:

1. Stevia (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Stevia has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support the immune system and reduce symptoms of inflammation.
2. Celandine (Coptis chinensis): Celandine has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bacteria and reduce inflammation.
3. Garlic root (Allium sativum): Garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, can support the immune system and has antibacterial effects.
4. Dandelion leaves (Taraxacum officinale): Dandelions have detoxifying properties and can support liver and kidney function.
5. Herbs that help strengthen the immune system: Include ginseng, cinnamon, licorice, astragalus and lingzhi.

However, the use of oriental medicines and herbs in the treatment of diphtheria should be done under the supervision of an experienced oriental medicine specialist. Please seek advice from an oriental medicine specialist or doctor before using any oriental medicine or herbal medicine to ensure safety and effectiveness.