An intestinal illness characterized by diarrhea containing blood and often mucus, usually resulting from inflammation of the intestine.
Dysentery is most commonly caused by intestinal infections, particularly certain bacteria or parasites. It can cause frequent, sometimes painful bowel movements and may be accompanied by abdominal cramps, fever, or other symptoms.
Because dysentery can cause substantial fluid and electrolyte loss, dehydration can become a serious concern, particularly in children and other vulnerable people. The appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Diarrhea: unusually loose or watery stools; dysentery is a more specific clinical syndrome in which blood is present in the stool, often with intestinal inflammation.
- Food poisoning: illness resulting from contaminated food or drink; some causes of food poisoning can produce dysentery, but not all do.
SEE ALSO