What is diphtheria, an infectious disease that is usually seen in children between the ages of 2 and 5? You can find all the details about the causes, symptoms and treatment of diphtheria in our news.
WHAT IS DIPHTHERIA (CUPALAZI)?
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose. Signs and symptoms usually begin 2-5 days after exposure and range from mild to severe. Symptoms usually come on gradually, starting with a sore throat and fever. In severe cases, the bacteria produce a poison (toxin) that creates a thick gray or white patch at the back of the throat. This can block the airway and make it difficult to breathe or swallow, and can also produce a barking cough. The neck may be partially swollen due to enlarged lymph nodes.
The venom can also enter the bloodstream and cause complications such as inflammation and damage to the heart muscle, inflammation of the nerves, kidney problems, and bleeding problems due to low blood platelets. Damaged heart muscles can result in an abnormal heart rate, and inflammation of the nerves can cause paralysis.
HOW IS DIPHTHERIA TRANSMITTED?
Diphtheria is transmitted from person to person by coughing or sneezing, usually through respiratory droplets. Diphtheria is also rarely caused by skin lesions, close physical contact, and contaminated (contaminated) toys, items, etc. with diphtheria bacteria. It is transmitted by contact with objects such as The average incubation period is 2-5 days. A person can spread disease for up to 2 weeks after infection. If antibiotics are not used, this period may exceed 4 weeks.
DIPHTHERIA SYMPTOMS
– Swelling on both sides of the neck
– Pale skin color and bruising on the lips
– vomiting
– Stomach ache
– Difficulty swallowing
– Difficulty breathing
– Swelling of the palate
– Hoarse or hoarse voice
– Increase in heart rhythm
DIPHTHERIA TREATMENT
In the treatment of diphtheria, people are separated from other sick and healthy people and their blood is taken for throat cultures and examination, then antitoxin and antibiotic treatment is started. Even if the patients have the disease, the vaccine is definitely applied before they leave the hospital and the vaccine should be repeated every 10 years.
More than 95% protection is provided with 3 doses of diphtheria vaccine administered at appropriate intervals in adults or 4 doses of diphtheria vaccine in infants. The clinical efficacy of diphtheria vaccine is estimated to be 97%.
In addition, those with a history of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to the vaccine or vaccine ingredients should not be vaccinated again for diphtheria. Vaccination should be delayed in patients with moderate or severe acute illness. However, the vaccine can be given in mild disease. Those with suppressed immune systems and pregnant women can be vaccinated against diphtheria.
Apart from this, if the problem is in the throat area, putting wet cloths on this area from the outside, ensuring that he lies constantly, resting and not speaking are also necessary conditions for the treatment process. In addition, until the treatment results in a positive way, both children and adults should pay attention to their diet. You should eat plenty of light soups, lemonade, natural fruit juices, compotes and light juicy dishes that are not heavy in consistency.
