Dysentery

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Other names for Dysentery

Amoebic dysentery
Bacillary dysentery
Entamoebiasis
Shigellosis

Synopsis of Dysentery

Dysentery is an intestinal infection characterized by severe diarrhea with blood and mucus in the stool, often accompanied by abdominal cramps, fever, and dehydration. It is caused primarily by two agents: Shigella bacteria (bacillary dysentery) and Entamoeba histolytica parasites (amoebic dysentery). Bacillary dysentery is more common in developed areas, while amoebic dysentery is often associated with poor sanitation and tropical climates.

Transmission typically occurs through the fecal-oral route—contaminated food, water, or surfaces—making outbreaks more common in overcrowded or unsanitary environments. Once ingested, these pathogens invade the intestinal lining, triggering inflammation and damage that lead to painful, bloody stools and frequent urges to defecate.

Complications can include dehydration, malnutrition, colonic ulceration, and in rare cases, systemic infection or liver abscesses (especially in amoebic dysentery). Rapid medical attention is essential in severe cases, particularly in children, the elderly, or immunocompromised individuals.

Diagnosis is made via stool analysis and sometimes imaging or endoscopy. Treatment depends on the cause—antibiotics for bacterial infections and antiparasitic medications for amoebic forms.

When to see a doctor:
Seek immediate medical care if you experience blood in stools, persistent diarrhea lasting more than 2 days, fever, dehydration, or severe abdominal pain. Children and elderly patients with symptoms should not delay treatment.

Natural remedies for Dysentery

Hydration: Oral rehydration with electrolyte solutions or broths is crucial to prevent dehydration.

Probiotics: Support the restoration of gut flora disrupted by infection.

Clear Diet: Eat easily digestible foods like rice porridge, bananas, and boiled potatoes until recovery.

Avoid Dairy and Spices: These may aggravate the intestines during recovery.

Guava Leaf Tea or Pomegranate Peel Tea: Traditional remedies believed to help reduce diarrhea.

Additional Help

Talk with Dr. Shannyn

Struggling with chronic symptoms?
Many health concerns are complex—and what works for one person may not work for another. Talk with Dr. Shannyn, our licensed naturopathic doctor, to get personalized guidance on which herbs, nutrients, or lifestyle shifts could support your healing.

Schedule a Free Consult →
Personalized support. No pressure. No cost.

At-Home Lab Testing

Get to the root of what’s really going on.
Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, skin issues, or mood changes often point to deeper imbalances. Our at-home lab tests make it easy to investigate hormone health, gut function, food sensitivities, and more—no clinic visit required.

Explore Lab Testing →
Results interpreted with expert support. No clinic visit required.