Let's learn about Pseudomonas Aeruginosa, a common and dangerous bacterium in hospitals!

There are millions of bacteria that live in our environment, especially in soil and water, and are invisible to the naked eye. While most of them are harmless, some are dangerous. One such bacteria is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Although the name may sound a bit harsh, it is important for us all to be aware of the conditions caused by this bacteria.

Simply put, what is Pseudomonas?

Pseudomonas is a group of bacteria that usually lives outdoors, in soil, water, and in damp places inside homes. If you are in good health, you don't have to worry about getting sick from this bacteria. You may get a minor skin rash , an ear infection, or an eye infection. This bacteria can sometimes cause swimmer's ear, which is a condition that causes earaches after swimming pools, and blisters on the skin after using hot tubs that haven't been properly cleaned.

How does this infection enter our bodies?

There are several ways this bacteria can enter our bodies. Since this bacteria can grow on the surface of fruits and vegetables, it can be transmitted through such dirty foods. Also, this bacteria grows well in places where moisture remains, such as tanks, swimming pools, bathrooms, and kitchen sinks. However, the most severe infections are most often reported in healthcare institutions such as hospitals. Imagine, if some medical equipment used in hospitals, for example, catheters or breathing machines, is not properly cleaned and disinfected, this bacteria can easily grow on it. Also, if a healthcare worker does not wash his hands properly, this bacteria can easily be transmitted from an infected patient to another patient.

Other surprising places where this bacteria lives

Who is at higher risk of developing this infection?

People with the following conditions are at higher risk of developing a Pseudomonas infection:

• For those with open wounds that have not healed after surgery.
• For those receiving treatment for burn injuries .
• For those who use medical equipment such as breathing machines and catheters.
• For those with diabetes .
• People with chronic lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis.
• For those with conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV.
• For those taking medications that suppress the immune system , such as cancer medications.

What are the symptoms of an infection?

The symptoms of the infection depend on which part of the body the bacteria affects. Infection can occur anywhere from the nails to the blood, lungs, stomach, and urinary tract. Additionally, fever is a common symptom of severe Pseudomonas infection.

How can the doctor tell if I have this infection?

Your doctor may suspect this after listening to your symptoms and doing a physical exam. For example, if you notice changes in your skin or eyes. To confirm this suspicion, he or she will take a sample of your blood or other body fluid (such as sputum, urine, or pus from a wound) and send it for a lab test or culture. In some cases, imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound may be done to see if there is an infection deeper inside your body. The results of these tests can help your doctor decide which antibiotics are best for treating your infection.

How is it treated? Is this dangerous?

If you have a minor infection, you can treat it with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. Depending on where the infection is, these medications may come in the form of a cream, drops to put in the eyes or ears, or pills to take by mouth. However, if you have a severe infection, you may need to take antibiotics intravenously (IV) for weeks. Because Pseudomonas bacteria are constantly changing and getting stronger, infections can be difficult to treat. Therefore, more than one type of antibiotic is often needed to completely kill the bacteria.

Antibiotic Resistance

This is the biggest challenge for this bacteria. Some strains of Pseudomonas bacteria, especially the CP-CRPA (Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa) strain, are resistant to many existing antibiotics. They are also resistant to carbapenems, which are very powerful antibiotics that are given when no other drugs can cure the disease.

What other complications can occur due to infection?

• Other infections: Taking antibiotics can sometimes cause other bacterial infections, such as Clostridioides difficile (C. diff). Symptoms include diarrhea and stomach pain.
• Antibiotic resistance: If the infection does not respond to medication, it can lead to more doctor visits, hospitalizations, higher medical costs, and side effects from treatment.
• Sepsis: This is a very serious condition where the body's immune system, which is supposed to fight infection, starts attacking the body's own organs.
• Organ failure: If left untreated or due to a severe infection, vital organs can be damaged.

So, how can you stay safe from this dangerous infection?

You can reduce your risk of infection by avoiding contact with this bacteria. Following these tips is easier than you think.

• Wash your hands often: This is the best protection. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you are in a hospital, make sure that the doctor or nurse treating you always washes their hands before touching you, or uses hand sanitizer. Don't be afraid to ask.
• Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly before eating: Even lettuce should be washed thoroughly.
• Keep your water bottles clean: Wash and sterilize them with hot water after use.
• Wash bedding and towels frequently in hot water.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking reduces the ability of your lungs to fight germs.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces in your home: doorknobs, toilet flush handles, light switches, etc. Don't forget your phone and laptop.
• Avoid dirty swimming pools and hot tubs.
• Take care of your health: Take your medications exactly as your doctor prescribes. After surgery, watch for signs of infection. If you experience fever, pain, or redness or drainage from the surgery site , notify your doctor immediately.

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