Bacteria have various impacts on health, positive and negative. While some bacteria aid digestion, facilitate nutrient synthesis, and promote immune system support, harmful bacteria can cause infections, diseases, and food spoilage, leading to symptoms, such as fever, pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, and increased heart rate. Unfortunately, infections caused by bacteria are of several types, which is why knowing about the most common ones is of utmost importance. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sanjay Dhall, Director-Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, shares insights on the same.
Also Read: Viral Versus Bacterial Infection: Why You Need To Know The Difference
What Is A Bacterial Infection?
A bacterial infection occurs when harmful bacteria enter the body and start multiplying, causing illness. These bacteria can be found everywhere in our environment, and while many are harmless or even helpful, some can cause diseases. When harmful bacteria invade our body, they can multiply and release toxins, leading to various symptoms and health problems.
According to a study, published in the Journal International Encyclopedia of Public Health, bacteria usually spread to humans through air, water, food, or living vectors. The primary modes of transmission include "contact, airborne, droplet, vectors, and vehicular," the study shares.
Furthermore, each bacteria species holds a preference to infect certain organs and not others.
The above-mentioned study says, "Neisseria meningitidis normally infects the meninges (covering) of the central nervous system, causing meningitis, and can also infect the lungs, causing pneumonia. It is not, however, a cause of skin infection. Staphylococcus aureus, which people typically carry on their skin or mucous membranes, often causes skin and soft tissue infections, but also spreads readily throughout the body via the bloodstream and can cause infection of the lungs, abdomen, heart valves, and almost any other site."
Common Bacterial Infections To Note
According to Dr Dhall, most common bacterial infections are those pertaining to the respiratory and gastro-intestinal tract.
Respiratory infections
The respiratory tract infections can be further divided in two categories, namely acute upper respiratory tract infections and lower respiratory tract infections.
The upper respiratory tract infection can lead to conditions like strep throat (Streptococcal Pharyngitis), caused by Streptococcus bacteria, and sinusitis, inflammation of the sinuses, both of which can lead to sore throat, fever, and congestion.
Lower respiratory tract infections like bronchitis and pneumonitis are less common and affect vulnerable populations like diabetics, elderly persons and immuno- suppressed individuals, says Dr Dhall.
Gastrointestinal tract infections
Some of the common gastrointestinal tract bacterial infections include:
Salmonella: It causes food poisoning with symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and fever.
Campylobacter: Another common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis, leading to diarrhoea and stomach pain.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
A UTI is usually caused by a bacteria called Escherichia coli (E. coli) and affects the urethra, bladder, vagina or kidneys. Research suggests women are more prone to UTI than men, mainly because of the female lower urinary tract anatomy and its nearness to the reproductive organs.
Also Read: Habits That Can Help You Prevent a UTI
Skin Infections
Certain bacteria can also affect the skin - the most common being Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species. Common skin infections associated with bacteria include:
Cellulitis: This bacterial infection of the skin often occurs due to Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria, leading to redness, swelling, and pain.
Impetigo: It is a highly contagious skin infection, usually caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus, characterised by blisters and sores.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 30 different bacteria, viruses and parasites are said to be transmitted through sexual contact. This includes vaginal, anal and oral sex.
Shockingly, more than 10 lakh STIs are acquired every day worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic.
Common STIs caused by bacteria include: Chlamydia, caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria, and gonorrhoea, a result of Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria.
Prevention & Treatment Options
When it comes to preventing bacterial infections, maintaining hand hygiene, taking good care of food hygiene, avoiding crowded places, and practising safe sex are some of the crucial steps.
Treatment for bacterial infections often involves antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. It's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure the infection is completely eradicated and to prevent antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance is when bacteria become resistant to the drugs used to treat them. Ensure that you consult your doctor about the same.