BLOODY DYSENTERY Meaning and
Definition
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Bloody dysentery, also known as bacillary dysentery or shigellosis, is a highly infectious gastrointestinal disease characterized by severe inflammation of the colon and rectum, leading to frequent passage of bloody stools. It is primarily caused by the bacteria of the Shigella genus, specifically Shigella dysenteriae, Shigella flexneri, Shigella boydii, and Shigella sonnei.
Symptoms of bloody dysentery vary in severity but commonly include abdominal cramps, fever, nausea, and a strong urgency to defecate. The disease is particularly notorious for the presence of blood in stools, often appearing as streaks or clots due to ulceration and damage to the intestinal lining. In some cases, individuals may also experience tenesmus, a persistent feeling of needing to pass stool even after evacuation.
Bloody dysentery spreads through the oral-fecal route, typically as a result of consuming contaminated food or water, or through direct contact with infected individuals. It is particularly prevalent in areas with poor sanitation, overcrowded living conditions, and inadequate hygiene practices.
Treatment for bloody dysentery usually involves a course of antibiotics to target the specific Shigella bacteria causing the infection. Supportive measures such as fluid and electrolyte replacement are also necessary to prevent dehydration, especially in severe cases. Proper hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing and proper sanitation methods, are crucial in preventing the spread of this highly contagious disease.
Etymology of BLOODY DYSENTERY
The term "bloody dysentery" does not have an etymology of its own. It is a combination of two words: "bloody" and "dysentery", each with their respective etymology.
1. "Bloody":
The word "bloody" originated from Middle English "blody" or "bloody" around the 14th century. It comes from Old English "blodig", which means "covered in blood". The root of the word is "blod", which dates back to Proto-Germanic. It is related to other Germanic languages such as German "blutig" and Dutch "bloedig".
2. "Dysentery":
The word "dysentery" was derived from the Greek word "dysenteria", which translates to "bad bowels" or "difficulty in the intestines".
Similar spelling word for BLOODY DYSENTERY
