Bacteria are the oldest form of living organisms on Earth. They are found almost everywhere in the soil, air, and even our bodies. Bacteria are responsible for causing the most common bacterial infections in people throughout the globe. It includes stomach infections, skin infections, and oral infections and invades almost all other body parts. Some bacteria are extremely harmful and cause serious health problems.
Your body gives off symptoms when you have bacterial infections. It includes:
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea
- Pain in a certain area
- Feeling tired
If the symptoms get worsen then you need to see a doctor immediately.
- If you have respiratory issues, cough, or pain in the throat, it suggests that you have a bacterial infection in the lungs or throat.
- If you have stomach pain it also indicates some bacterial activity.
- Redness or swelling of the skin shows that bacteria can be the culprit.
- Pus from the area of wounds and cuts.
Most common bacterial infections
The following are the most common bacterial infections:
Cholera
Cholera is caused due to vibrio cholera bacteria and is one of the most common bacterial infections. It happens when you drink contaminated water. Cholera can be life-threatening even in healthy people if exposed to it. It is widespread in countries like Africa where contaminated water is not treated.
Diphtheria
It is a bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system and the skin. The symptoms include coughing, sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, appetite loss, and weakness. Open sores and ulcers also develop in severe cases when the infection goes to the skin.
Dysentery
It is the infection of the intestines that causes diarrhea with blood. Entamoeba histolytica is the bacteria responsible for it. This disease spreads even with minimum contact cases. It spreads by food and even if you eat food prepared by someone who has dysentery, you might catch the disease.
Bubonic plague
A plague is a serious bacterial disease that is communicated principally by insects. The bacteria responsible for this disease is common in some parts of Africa, Asia, and the United States. People who are bitten by bugs, insects, and mice are contaminated with the disease. However, it has been controlled in many parts of the world.
Tuberculosis
It is common in underdeveloped countries and the treatment goes on for a long time. The symptoms of tuberculosis include a cough that lasts more than three weeks, sudden weight loss, chills at night, and severe chest pain. Tuberculosis does not have any physical symptoms on the skin and can only be tested through blood. Generally, it spreads from one patient to another.
Bacterial meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is a serious disorder caused by bacteria including E. coli, Haemophilus influenza, and Group B Streptococcus. The person usually dies because of it but some people have serious health losses even after recovery. It includes hearing loss and brain damage. People can also encounter paralysis or even stroke.
Otitis media
Otitis media is a common type of bacterial or viral infection in the Ear which is caused when bacteria settle down in the eardrum. It results in inflammation and antibiotics are generally prescribed. It is one of the most common bacterial infections in children of ages 3 to 12 years. Common colds and flu can also develop otitis media.
Gastritis
Gastritis, the most common bacterial infection typically occurs due to a bacterial attack in the lining of the stomach. The reason for it is the same bacteria that is responsible for ulcers. Alcohol consumption can also lead to gastritis. If the treatment is delayed for a long time it can grow severe and turn into stomach cancer.
Food poisoning
There is a long list of bacteria like Vibrio vulnificus, Campylobacter, Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli which are responsible for causing food poisoning. It occurs when you eat food infected by bacteria, parasites, or viruses. It is yet the most common bacterial infection that cures with medication in a week or two. The symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and blood in the urine.
Eye infections
Bacteria and fungi cause most of the infections in children and adults. They can affect one or both eyes. The most prevailing is the style which occurs when the bacteria in the eye get attached to the hair follicle of the eyelid and create a bump. Antibiotic eye drops are prescribed by eye specialists in this case.
Sinusitis
It is a condition where the space with the nose (sinus) becomes filled with fluid and occurs as a result of flu. You might face difficulty in breathing with the nose and facial pain or headache that does not go away. It is very common in people who catch severe flu. If the sinusitis lasts more than 12 weeks it is a chronic one.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections can be anywhere in the urethra, urinary bladder, and even kidneys. It can be due to bacterial contact with the urinary organs. Females are at a greater risk of developing UTIs as compared to males. It causes a burning sensation with urine, frequent urine, and a strong smell of different colored urine. These bacteria also spread as a result of sexual contact.
Skin infections
Skin infections occur as a result of a bacterial attack on the skin. A red bump appears which may grow in size and causes pain. These most common bacterial infections are not severe and are easily treated with the help of antibiotics.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Sexual activities can transfer about 30 different types of bacterial infections. You can easily treat bacterial infections like gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and syphilis. However, HIV, herpes simplex, and HIP infections are incurable. Oral, anal, and vaginal sex can be a cause of sexually transmitted infections. These infections can also transfer to the child as a result of pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.