Causes and risk factors
Diphtheria is caused by bacteria corynebacterium diphtheria. The infection spreads through droplets in air while coughing or sneezing. Contact with the respiratory secretions of the infected person or direct contact with secretion of the skin lesion are the major contributing factor.
Clinical presentation
The incubation period is 1-6 days. It not only affects the respiratory system but can also affect ears, conjunctiva, vagina and vulva. As per the area of affection in the respiratory system diphtheria is classified as nasal diphtheria, pharyngeal / tonsillar diphtheria or laryngeal diphtheria. Formation of white membrane on the affected site is the characteristic feature of diphtheria. White membrane formation is seen on nasal septum, tonsils or pharynx. The patient’s complaints of sore throat, fever, headache and bodyache. There occurs difficulty in swallowing; pricking or sticking sensation is felt in the throat.Dry cough, hoarseness of voice and swelling of the surrounding lymph nodes is seen. Grayish white ulcer formation can occur which emits foul smelling discharges. The complications Toxic myocarditis, paralysis of the soft palate, secondary bacterial infection, airway obstruction, gastritis and Hepatitis can be seen.
Investigations
The diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and physical examination carried out by the doctor. Oral examination of the throat with the help of a torch and enlarged lymph nodes are suggestive signs of diphtheria.
Investigations like blood test and culture of blood or throat swabs are recommended.
Treatment
Medications like antibiotics are started. Intravenous infusion of anti diphtheric toxins is done. Timely vaccination should be taken Diphtheria pertussis-tetanus vaccine and Booster dose diphtheria and tetanus toxoids are the preventive measure.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
