Many people are interested in what it is and how to live with it. E. coli is a hemolytic Escherichia coli, it is considered to be a rod-shaped bacterium belonging to the group of facultative anaerobes (it lives and multiplies only in circumstances of inaccessibility of direct air). It has many strains, most of which relate to the natural microflora of the intestinal tract of people and helps to prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and synthesize vitamin K. But certain types of it can provoke poisoning, intestinal dysbiosis and colibacteriosis.
The normal flora of the intestinal tract contains a large number of bacteria, among which there are lactobacilli, enterococci, streptococci, etc. The strains of these microorganisms are in relative equilibrium, however, if this balance is broken in any way, the pathogenic bacteria will multiply intensively. At the same time, fermentation and decomposition processes are activated, provoking the appearance of serious diseases.
Some strains of E. coli provoke the occurrence of not only diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, but also affect the genitourinary system, provoke vaginitis, inflammation, prostatitis, meningitis in infants. In some cases, they can become a factor in the formation of hemolytic-uremic syndrome, peritonitis, mastitis, pneumonia and sepsis.
In more detail about the prevention, symptoms and treatment of hemolytic Escherichia coli in adults is described in the article.
What kinds are there?
Symptoms of hemolytic Escherichia coli in adults depend on the type of bacterium.
For example, Escherich's wand has approximately 100 strains. E. coli bacteria are considered an essential component of the beneficial microflora of the gastrointestinal tract. They take part in the synthesis of vitamin K and B, the digestion process. However, certain strains belong to pathogens. The most common of these is sickle cell or hemolytic Escherichia coli.
Lactose-negative E. coli is a symbolic pathogen. She is able to live in the intestinal tract without giving herself away.
Hemolytic Escherichia coli, present in the body of infants, can cause death, if you do not proceed to treatment on time.
Causes
Some medications that suppress those bacteria that are responsible for the elimination and reproduction of the pathogenic flora can change the standard composition of the microflora of the intestinal tract.
In order to exclude the occurrence of dysbiosis and digestive upset (if a hemolytic Escherichia coli was found in the feces of an adult), antibacterial drugs, their dose, and also in combination should use those drugs that will protect the standard microflora of the intestinal tract.
Infection with pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli occurs most often through the fecal-oral route. Non-compliance with the rules of hygiene of food preparation, the use of dirty fruits and vegetables, the use of dirty or sewage water contribute to the occurrence of diseases. It is also unsafe to consume low-fried meat or unboiled milk, since cows, goats, pigs and sheep are carriers of pathogenic strains of E. coli.
Symptoms
Food poisoning initiated by certain strains of Escherichia coli is dangerous due to the release of toxins. Some of these toxins can be fatal. Most pathogenic bacteria are found in the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and inflamed tissues (sources of inflammation).
Symptoms of Escherichia coli completely coincide with the symptoms of intestinal dysbiosis. In addition to stool disorders (constipation, diarrhea), the patient may experience vomiting and nausea, flatulence and abdominal pain. The smell of excrement changes, it starts to stink from the mouth. Of the signs of general intoxication in this case, there is observed: high fatigue, powerlessness, lethargy, lack of appetite.
It is also worth mentioning what is the danger of hemolytic E. coli and how to treat it, because it all depends on the location of the bacterium.
The presence of bacteria in the urine
If the analysis was set correctly, it is imperative to consult a doctor, since E. coli, once in the urinary tract, becomes the cause of the inflammatory process. For example, approximately half of the common cases of pyelonephritis occur directly due to E. coli. She caused 4 out of 5 cases of cystitis in girls.
Once in the urinary tract, Escherichia coli is not excreted along with urine, but it gets further (into the bladder), causing inflammation. Diseases of this kind are often exposed to young girls and children (due to weak immunity, unable to counteract harmful microorganisms).
Often, Escherichia coli in the urine can provoke the appearance of inflammation. In addition, it strikes the immune system, forming the right soil for infection with the most dangerous diseases.
If E. coli in the urine does not cause almost any painful changes, and the person does not experience signs of anxiety, most likely he will not need special therapy. For standard treatment, uroseptics and biologically active additives are usually prescribed that support the human immune system and prevent the formation of infection. Used for healing and traditional medicine. For example, the mummy (0.5 g) is recommended to eat before meals 3 times a day for a month.
Vaginal Escherichia coli
This microorganism was discovered back in 1885. Today there are many varieties of it. There are more than 100 types of bacteria that are pathogenic, they can provoke the appearance of complex diseases or intestinal infections. Including bacteria, which are classified as relatively pathogenic, getting from the intestinal tract to other organs endanger human health. The usual habitat for the rod is the part of the colon that is closer to the anus. In small quantities, this stick can be in the vagina; when it multiplies, it leads to problems such as microbial vaginosis, etc.
Sometimes local therapy is sufficient for treatment, however, with the rather intense nature of the lesion, a more fundamental approach is needed. Antibacterial therapy is carried out on the basis of the performed antibioticogram. Most often prescribed medications from the fluoroquinolone category, such as Levofloxacin or Ciprofloxacin. The required dose and duration of treatment is determined exclusively by the doctor. Do not self-medicate in any case, since the bacteria may be immune to certain drugs. We analyze the known antibacterial substances for the treatment of hemolytic Escherichia coli:
- Monural. Available in the form of a colorless granular powder, which must be taken before dissolving in water. The result is determined by the presence of phosphonic acid derivatives. This medicine belongs to a wide range of effects, if necessary, it can be prescribed even to pregnant women. As a rule, it is recommended to use 3 g once a day. The medicine may be combined with other antibiotics.
- Suprax. Form: capsules. The main active ingredient is tsifiksim. It is used for a number of infections, in particular, E. coli. Often appointed in conjunction with "Kanefron", which protects the urinary tract from infection.
- Fosmicin. It also belongs to bactericidal products of a wide range of effects and suggests an unconditional analogue of "Monural". Of the contraindications - pregnancy, age less than 12 years. This medicine is also prescribed for pregnant women, but it should be taken exclusively under the supervision of a gynecologist.
Diagnosis of the disease
Bacteriological analysis will help to identify and determine the causative agent of the disease. For the study, samples of feces, vomit, food fragments, and washings are examined. Drug treatment is prescribed according to the results of bacteriological analysis.
For a more rapid diagnosis, the serological method is suitable. For its implementation, venous blood is drawn. Along with this, they do a general analysis of blood, urine and feces. The treatment strategy is determined taking into account the following conditions:
- age of the patient;
- general health;
- Clinical signs;
- concomitant diseases;
- existing complications;
- reaction to drug resources.
After you learn about how E. coli manifests itself and what is dangerous (the types, causes and symptoms of which are presented above), you should familiarize yourself with the treatment methods.
Escherichia coli treatment
For diseases of the intestinal tract, samples of vomit or stool are taken for inoculation, for diseases of the urinary system - urine, and for damage to the reproductive system - smears from the mucous layers of the genital organs. With the help of enterobacterial cultures, a bacterium is determined, and then its susceptibility to drugs is established.
The patient will certainly be hospitalized and prescribed a diet. With a defeat of the digestive system, a therapeutic diet No. 4 is recommended, and with a defeat of the urogenital concept, table No. 7 is recommended.
In the event that a pathogenic Escherichia coli is present in the body, therapy includes etiotropic, pathogenetic and postsyndromic treatment.
Etiotropic treatment is carried out with the help of drugs and bacteriophages, based on the results of an antibioticogram. If dysbiosis is fixed, then probiotics are prescribed. Can help restore balance in the intestinal tract and lactic acid foods.
Pathogenic treatment is mainly carried out by means of infusion treatment: various solutions are injected into the blood in order to compensate for the reserve of water and cleanse the body of toxins.
Post-syndromic treatment is prescribed depending on how the disease has manifested itself.
Features of treatment depending on the location of the bacteria
If E. coli is detected in the urine, then this manifestation is called bacteriuria. Therapy of E. coli in urine is carried out with the help of drugs, uroseptics and biologically active additives that help strengthen the immune system and stop the growth of infection.
Escherichia coli in the vagina leads to the occurrence of inflammatory processes in the organs of the reproductive system. Therapy of Escherichia coli in gynecology is carried out with a short course of drugs and requires personal hygiene and a complete rejection of sexual contacts.
If Escherichia coli is detected in the goiter, then you need to be prepared for long-term treatment using drugs and antifungal medications. It is preferable to use oral rinses, which have an antiseptic effect.
If E. coli is detected in a pregnant woman or in a child, then the therapy begins with the appointment of probiotics and bacteriophages. If they do not bring the necessary result, then resort to the help of stronger drugs.
To inhibit a bacterial infection, various medications are prescribed. Antibacterial agents from the fluoroquinolone category possess a wide range of effects: Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin. They are low toxic, however, while bacteria quickly enter the tissues, destroying them. In E. coli, immunity to the effects of fluoroquinolones is formed for a long time.
To restore the water-salt balance and compensate for the lost water, doctors prescribe rehydration substances: Orsol, Regidron, Orasan. In severe cases, use solutions for intravenous infusion. To combat intoxication, a huge amount of water is injected into the body. For this purpose, saline solutions and glucose are used.
Along with this, symptomatic treatment is also prescribed:
- enterosorbents are used for gastrointestinal tract cleaning: Polysorb, Smecta, Enterosgel;
- with diarrhea prescribed "Enterobene", "Loperamide", "Linex";
- "No-shpa", "Spazmalgon" will be able to cope with a bored stomach pain;
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs stop the inflammatory reaction: "Nurofen", "Diclofenac";
- eubiotics can help restore the intestinal microflora: "Acylact", "Bifidumbacterin";
- multivitamin complex complexes.
Grandma's recipes
Perfectly complement the medical treatment of hemolytic Escherichia coli in adults means of traditional medicine:
- Jerusalem artichoke (300 g) is cleaned, cut into cubes and placed in boiling milk diluted with water (500 ml). When the Jerusalem artichoke softens, it is taken out, and flour (20 g) and butter (40 g) are added to the milk. Prepare until thickened. Next, Jerusalem artichoke is poured with this sauce, greens are added.
- Goose cinquefoil (20 g) is brewed with hot water (250 ml) and, keeping it on low heat for a quarter of a minute, is left overnight. You need to drink this medicine 3 times a day for 80 ml.
- A string of grass (10 g) is poured with cooled boiled water (250 ml) and placed for 15 minutes in a water bath. Take the broth in the morning, at lunchtime and in the evening, 20 ml.
- The medicinal sweet clover, coltsfoot and centaury are mixed in equal proportions. Boiling water (250 ml) is poured into a mixture of herbs (20 g). Leave for a quarter of a minute. Drink once a day for 20-50 ml.
- It is also possible before eating three times a day for a month to eat 0.5 g of mummy.
Folk remedies (after they found a haemolytic Escherichia coli in an stool in an adult) will help restore the microflora of the intestinal tract and eliminate the negative effects of pathogens.
Infection prevention
Once you become familiar with the symptoms and treatment, the prevention of E. coli will be to prevent bacteria from entering the body. You should be guided by the rules of individual hygiene, do not drink water from unknown sources, vegetables and fruits should be consumed clean, properly heat treated foods.