Actinomycosis — causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Wednesday, December 20, 2017 by Jhoanna Robinson

Actinomycosis is a subacute-to-chronic bacterial infection caused by anaerobic-to-microaerophilic, filamentous, gram-positive bacteria. It is an immunodeficiency inflammation that is characterized by the formation of multiple abscesses and sinus tracts that may leak sulfur granules.

Actinomycosis is brought about by the proliferation of the bacterium called Actinomyces israelii, a common organism that thrives in the nose, throat, digestive tract, mouth, urinary tract, and female genital tract. Its most clinical forms include abdominal, cervicofacial (lumpy jaw), and thoracic.

As the strains of Actinomyces israeliilive freely in the body, they normally do not cause harm. However, they do so if the person develops a disease, or if there is damage to the tissue lining that causes the bacteria to get out of its natural habitat.

In women, pelvic actinomycosis has been reported, and has been caused usually by an intrauterine device to prevent pregnancy. However, actinomycosis has been reported to infect more men than women.

Actinomycosis is not contagious. It usually occurs when the bacterium that causes it enters the tissues after infection, surgery, or trauma. Triggers are usually dental abscess or oral surgery, gum disease, or damage to the esophagus.

Known side effects of actinomycosis

Actinomycosis is bad for oral health and for the face. It causes painful swelling to the mouth, jaw, or neck.

Body systems harmed by actinomycosis

Actinomycosis is bad for the respiratory system. The infection can spread to the airway and lungs, causing cough, fever, severe weight loss, and extreme weakness.

Actinomycosis is bad for the digestive system. It can damage the system’s organs, including everything from the esophagus to the anorectal area, causing abscesses, pain, and persistent fever.

Actinomycosis is bad for the female reproductive system. The infection can spread from the vagina into the pelvis, causing abscesses in the fallopian tubes and ovaries.

Actinomycosis is bad for the nervous system. This may happen when the infection is due to a lesion on the neck or the face, causing headaches and neurological symptoms.

Food items or nutrients that may prevent actinomycosis

Plants such as blessed thistle; kelp, seaweed, and bladderwhack; and sorrel, and fruits such as cranberries can be used to reduce the symptoms of actinomycosis.

Treatments, management plans for actinomycosis

Actinomycosis is usually treated via the intake of antibiotics or the surgical removal of the offending body part. However, it is more recommended to undergo hyperoxygen therapy first before trying these unnatural modes of treatment. Hyperoxygen therapy heps increase the distribution of oxygen to the affected tissues.