A type of bacteria commonly found in the gut, Klebsiella oxytoca is generally considered healthy when contained in its natural environment. However, when it leaves our stomach, it can cause a serious infection that resembles pneumonia. It can also cause a urinary tract infection.
In this article, we will be going over the most common klebsiella oxytoca symptoms and treatment options.
Klebsiella Oxytoca Symptoms
The bacteria is commonly found in hospital environments and can enter the body through person-to-person contact, catheters, wounds, and IV. It’s not spread through the air. These are the most common symptoms of this infection:
- flu-like symptoms – fever, chills, cough, difficulty while swallowing;
- shortness of breath;
- pain while urinating;
- nausea and vomiting;
- pain in the lower abdomen;
- inflammation around the wound;
- discharge of fluids from the wound.
Diabetes, alcohol use, and long-term use of antibiotics are all risk factors for Klebsiella oxytoca. Long-term complications of these infections are rare, although some people may experience lung damage if not treated in time.
Treatment Options
Like with any other bacterial infection, KO is usually treated with antibiotics. However, certain strains of this bacteria can be antibiotic-resistant, so your doctor may need to do more tests. These tests should determine which particular antibiotics will be the most effective for fighting the infection.
To prevent the infection and keep the germs from spreading, always wash your hands and ask the people who come to visit you in the hospital to wear gloves. Ask all the medical staff that works with you to use an antibacterial gel.
Final Word
If you’re ever in a hospital, watch out for these klebsiella oxytoca symptoms. Although it’s rarely deadly, it’s still important to distinguish it from other bacterial infections so it can be treated properly.
