What is Diphtheria and How Does it Affect the Body?

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. This infection primarily affects the throat and nose but can spread to the skin and other parts of the body. Although it has become less common in countries with widespread immunisation, diphtheria still poses a significant health risk in certain regions. Pantai Hospitals, known for its commitment to providing exceptional healthcare services, emphasises the importance of awareness and early detection to prevent complications.

What Are the Symptoms of Diphtheria?

Diphtheria symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the affected area of the body. The primary signs of diphtheria include:

Sore Throat and Difficulty Swallowing: 

The most common early symptoms, characterised by a sore throat that can make swallowing painful.

Fever and Malaise: 

A moderate to high fever is common, accompanied by feelings of fatigue and discomfort.

Thick Greyish Membrane in the Throat: 

One of the most distinctive signs is the formation of a thick, greyish membrane in the throat, which can block the airway and lead to breathing difficulties.

In severe cases, diphtheria can lead to complications such as heart failure, nerve damage, and even death.

How is Diphtheria Spread?

Diphtheria is contagious, typically spreading through:

Direct Contact with Infected Individuals: 

Close contact with someone who is infected is a primary mode of transmission. Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing can easily pass the bacteria.

Contact with Contaminated Surfaces: 

Touching surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with the bacteria and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes can lead to infection.

Skin-to-Skin Contact:

The bacteria can also spread through skin wounds, especially if an infected person has open sores.

What Are the Causes of Diphtheria?

Diphtheria is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which produces toxins that can damage tissues in the body. These toxins can lead to severe complications, such as organ damage and inflammation in the heart and nerves. Factors that increase the risk of contracting diphtheria include:

Lack of Vaccination: 

The diphtheria vaccine has been highly effective in reducing the incidence of this disease. However, in areas where vaccination rates are low, outbreaks remain a risk.

Poor Hygiene and Crowded Living Conditions:

Living in crowded environments with poor sanitation can increase the likelihood of exposure to the bacteria.

Travel to Endemic Areas:

People travelling to areas where diphtheria remains common may be at higher risk of contracting the infection.

How Can Diphtheria Be Prevented and Treated?

Preventing diphtheria primarily involves vaccination. The diphtheria vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule in Malaysia and many other countries. It is crucial to complete the full course of vaccinations to ensure lifelong protection.

Treatment of diphtheria typically involves antibiotics, such as penicillin or erythromycin, to kill the bacteria. In severe cases, the use of diphtheria antitoxin may be necessary to neutralise the toxins in the body. Patients may also require hospitalisation for monitoring and supportive care, particularly if the infection has caused breathing difficulties or heart complications.

FAQs

1. Can Diphtheria Affect Children?

Yes, diphtheria can affect children, especially those who are not immunised. However, vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of diphtheria in children in Malaysia and globally.

2. What Are the Complications of Diphtheria?

Complications can include damage to the heart, nerves, and kidneys, as well as airway obstruction. In severe cases, it can lead to death, highlighting the importance of early treatment.

3. Is Diphtheria Contagious?

Yes, diphtheria is highly contagious, and it spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, as well as through contact with infected skin lesions.

4. Can Diphtheria Be Treated at Home?

Diphtheria should be treated in a hospital setting, particularly if complications arise. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect someone has diphtheria.

5. How Effective is the Diphtheria Vaccine?

The diphtheria vaccine is highly effective, providing long-lasting protection when administered as part of the regular vaccination schedule. It is crucial for both children and adults to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations to avoid the risk of infection.

Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to severe health complications if not treated promptly. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms such as a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, or a thick greyish membrane in the throat, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent life-threatening complications like heart damage or respiratory failure.

At Pantai Hospitals, we offer advanced diagnostic services and are committed to helping prevent the spread of diphtheria through our vaccination programmes. Whether you need a routine vaccination, a booster shot, or a comprehensive health consultation, our experienced team is here to provide the care you need.

Don’t wait—take proactive steps to protect your health and the health of your loved ones. Book an appointment for a vaccination consultation or health screening via our website or by downloading the MyHealth360 application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Our dedicated healthcare professionals are ready to provide personalised care to meet your needs.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.