Symptoms of Fournier’s Gangrene
When the bacteria that cause Fournier’s Gangrene get into the body, they start to reproduce, releasing a poisonous chemical that attacks the flesh.
Once this toxin begins to damage the tissue, the individual in question will suddenly experience an intense pain in their genital region. If any injury has been sustained it will be completely disproportionate to the pain, although often there is no apparent cause.
It does not take long for the infection to become established and further symptoms usually start to appear within 24 hours. Alongside the severe pain in the genitalia, a person may also develop:
- Pain or problems when passing urine
- Fever
- A penis/scrotum/perineum that is swollen, red and hot to touch
- Dehydration
Unless treatment is provided, these symptoms will continue. The visual presentation of the infected area will quickly deteriorate, getting increasingly darker in colour. The skin will turn from red to purple to black, and pus filled blisters may also develop.
Within three to four days, a patient’s condition will become critical if treatment is not given. He will go on to suffer:
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion
- Septic shock
- Unconsciousness
If Fournier’s Gangrene is allowed to progress to this advanced stage, it may result in death.
Failure to detect Fournier’s Gangrene
It should be possible for medical practitioners to recognise the early symptoms of Fournier’s Gangrene. Indeed, an intense genital pain that is disproportionate to the trauma sustained, and tissue that is red and hot to touch, are characteristic signs of Fournier’s Gangrene. At the very least, doctors should realise that an infection is present and take steps to identify the bacteria present.
As long as the appropriate medical action is taken, an early diagnosis should be possible. But unfortunately not all medical professionals have an understanding of Fournier’s Gangrene and mistake a patient’s symptoms for another condition. This will be very problematic as treatment will be delayed, probably resulting in devastating complications for the patient.
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