Amoebae in the intestines: amoebiasis
Amoebae in the intestines are common and can cause amoebiasis. Amoebae are single-celled microscopic organisms found throughout the world. Although many amoebae are harmless, some can cause intestinal infections in humans. The amoeba that can make people ill is called Entamoeba histolytica. It can survive in the large intestine because of the warmth and high moisture level, where it produces cysts that are passed in the stool. In this way, the cysts can enter sewage and sometimes contaminate food. They can then spread to other people and cause amoebiasis.
What symptoms can amoebae in the intestines cause?
Once amoebae are present in the intestines, the cysts they produce can develop into new amoebae. These organisms can penetrate the lining of the large intestine and may cause inflammation of the peritoneum. Amoebae can also be carried in the bloodstream and reach the liver, where they may cause an abscess. Symptoms of an intestinal amoeba infection include:
- Diarrhoea
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Cramps
What can you do about amoebae in the intestines?
Once infected with intestinal amoebae, it can take from one week to four months before you notice anything (the incubation period). Most people have no symptoms at all. If you do experience symptoms, it is important to contact your GP. Your GP can use laboratory tests to determine whether amoebae and amoebiasis are present. This can be done by examining your stool or by taking a biopsy. If amoebiasis is diagnosed, your doctor can treat it with various antiparasitic medicines. In some severe cases, hospital admission is necessary. In that case, you will receive additional fluids and the medicines you need. Any cysts in the liver can be detected with an ultrasound scan.
Preventing amoebae
You can reduce the risk of intestinal amoebae and amoebiasis by always drinking purified water. This is especially important when you are in higher-risk areas, for example while travelling. Contaminated water can be treated with iodine tablets, a good filtration system and thorough boiling. To help prevent intestinal amoebae, also make sure food is properly washed, peeled and heated before eating. Always check which measures are recommended to prevent specific diseases in the country you are visiting.
Contact and additional information
Would you like to know more about amoebae in the intestines and amoebiasis? Would you like to have your intestines tested? View our tests online.
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