Dysentery Definition

Dysentery is a pathological disorder within the intestine that causes "severe inflammation of the mucous membrane." It is coupled with bloody stools, sharp pains in the lower abdomen and fever, as defined by the New International Dictionary of the English Language.

Causes

The Free Dictionary states that dysentery is caused by infections of bacteria, protozoa or parasites.

Effects

According to Merriam-Webster, dysentery causes serious diarrhea with mucus and blood excretions.

Etymology

Dysentery is from the Old French word, "dysenterie," from the Latin "dysenteria." This word originates from the Greek "dys-," meaning bad, and "enteron," meaning intestine, according to the New International Dictionary of the English Language.

History

Merriam-Webster dates its usage back to the 14th century. The Oxford English Dictionary dates its usage to 1382.

Warning

The uncontrolled diarrhea from dysentery leads to dehydration and the possibility of death, according to MedicineNet.

Treatment

Treatment includes emergency hydration of the body and medication to combat the intestinal infection.

References

• New International Dictionary of the English Language; Funk & Wagnalls; 1987
• The Compact Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary; Oxford University Press; 1971
• Dysentery

Resources

• Dysentery
• Dysentery Etymology
• Dysentery

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