Diphtheria Warning Signs: What To Look Out For
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Overview
A bacterial infection of the nose and throat caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. The most common symptom is a thick gray coating on the throat and tonsils.
Symptoms
If you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of a Diphtheria, seek medical attention immediately
Symptoms of respiratory diphtheria are:
- Swollen neck lymph nodes (cervical lymphadenopathy)
- Throat is covered by a gray thick membrane
- Feeling of discomfort or illness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever
- Sore Throat
- Cough
- Wheezing
- May cause Respiratory failure
Symptoms of cutaneous diphtheria are;
- Ulcers covered by a gray thick membrane
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
→ Common treatment options
→ Questions to ask your doctor
Causes
Diphtheria is rare in developed countries and can be prevented through vaccine. If untreated, infection may damage vital organs such as kidney, heart and nervous system. It is transmitted through airborne droplets and contaminated personal or household items such as:
- Respiratory droplets from person to person through coughing or sneezing.
- Coming in contact with an infected object.
- Coming in contact with skin lesions of an infected person.
Risk factors include:
- Age children under 5 or adults above 60 are more vulnerable
- Not vaccinated
- Unhygienic environment
- Weak immune system
→ Do you have a health question on your mind for diphtheria? Ask professionals from across the world
→ Interested to know more? Check out the full article here
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