Sometimes we don't worry too much about something like a simple stomach ache or diarrhea that your child has, right? But sometimes, especially if there is blood in the stool (bloody diarrhea), there may be something more serious hidden behind it. That's why we are talking about a condition that needs to be paid attention to, a little scary, but can be managed if you are properly informed. That is HUS, or Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome.
What is HUS simply?
Simply put, Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a condition that damages the very delicate blood vessels in your kidneys . When these blood vessels are damaged, small blood clots begin to form inside them.
Think of it this way: our kidneys are like a water filter that cleans our blood. The blood clots mentioned earlier clog the fine filters in these kidneys. This means that the kidneys are unable to properly perform their normal function, which is to filter and remove waste products from the blood. If this condition becomes severe, it can even lead to kidney failure .
This condition can develop at any time in life, even in young children. If not treated promptly, it can be life-threatening. But the good news is that most children make a full recovery with proper treatment.
What are the main causes of HUS?
HUS often occurs after a severe intestinal infection. The main culprit in these infections is a particularly virulent type of bacteria called `E. coli`. This bacteria is most commonly transmitted through contaminated water and undercooked food (especially meat). Sometimes it can be spread from one infected person to another.
When these germs enter the body, the toxins they produce accumulate in the blood, damaging the blood vessels in the kidneys and causing HUS.
In addition to E. coli infection, there are several other possible causes of HUS.
| Cause | A short description |
|---|---|
| Other infections | Viral infections such as HIV or influenza. |
| Some medications | Especially drugs given to control immunity after organ transplantation. |
| Complications during pregnancy | This may be caused by some complications during pregnancy. |
| Autoimmune diseases | Diseases in which the body's own immune system attacks its own cells. |
| Cancer (rarely) | This can also be caused by some cancerous conditions. |
There is another type called atypical HUS. This is an inherited condition. This means it is passed down through generations. It usually does not occur spontaneously, but the condition can be “activated” for one of the reasons mentioned above.
How do we recognize the symptoms of HUS?
The symptoms of HUS can vary from person to person. It also depends on the cause of the disease. In HUS, which is caused by the bacteria `E. coli`, symptoms in your digestive system first appear before damage to your kidneys .
Early symptoms
These are the first symptoms of stomach upset :
- Bloody diarrhea – This is a very important warning sign!
- Fever
- Severe stomach pain
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Vomiting
Serious symptoms that may occur later
These symptoms may appear when the disease becomes severe, blood vessels are damaged, red blood cells begin to break down (we call this anemia), and blood clots form in the kidneys.
| Symptom | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pale complexion | Skin discoloration due to anemia. |
| Excessive sleepiness, lethargy | Extreme fatigue caused by body weakness. |
| High blood pressure | Due to impaired kidney function. |
| Difficulty breathing | Due to fluid accumulation in the body or lack of blood. |
| Decreased urination or blood in the urine | A major symptom of kidney failure. |
| Bruising for no reason | Due to a decrease in the number of platelets that help blood clot. |
| Bleeding from the nose and mouth | This is another symptom of platelet deficiency. |
| Swelling | Due to the inability of the kidneys to remove excess fluid. |
| Seizures or stroke | Very serious conditions that can occur if the brain is affected. |
How is HUS treated?
This is not an illness that can be treated at home. Immediate hospitalization is essential. In the hospital, special medical treatment is required.
There are several treatment methods:
- Transfusions: Red blood cell transfusions are given to replace broken red blood cells. Platelets are also given to control bleeding if the number of platelets is low.
- Intravenous fluids (IV fluids): Fluids such as saline are given to maintain the body's hydration and salt balance.
- Medication: In special cases like atypical HUS, the doctor may prescribe special medications like `Eculizumab (Soliris)` to prevent further damage to the blood vessels.
- Dialysis: If the kidneys fail severely, the job they need to do, which is to filter and remove waste products from the blood, is done with the help of a machine called 'Dialysis'.
- Plasma transfusion: Giving blood plasma to restore blood circulation.
- Kidney transplant: Patients who have suffered severe permanent kidney damage may need to have a new kidney transplant.
What can we do to protect ourselves from HUS?
The main cause of HUS is an intestinal infection, so if we can avoid those infections, we can greatly reduce the risk of HUS. That means cleanliness is the most important thing.
Here are some simple things you can follow:
- Wash your hands often: Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap before preparing food, before eating, after using the bathroom, and after changing your child's diaper.
- Food safety: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating. Cook meat, especially beef, thoroughly (ideally to a temperature of at least 71 degrees Celsius or 160 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Refrigeration: Do not cook meat directly from the refrigerator. Cook after it has thawed thoroughly, either in the microwave or at room temperature. Store raw meat and cooked food separately in the refrigerator.
- Unpasteurized foods: Avoid using unpasteurized milk, cheese, or fruit drinks.
- Swimming pools: If you have diarrhea, do not go into swimming pools. Also, avoid swimming in dirty areas.
Take-Home Message
- Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a condition that initially begins with symptoms such as bloody diarrhea and can then severely affect the kidneys.
- This is most commonly seen in children, especially after an infection with the bacteria `E. coli`.
- If your child or you have symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, extreme fatigue, paleness, and decreased urination , don't waste time and see a doctor immediately or go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
- Although this is a frightening condition, many people make a full recovery with proper hospital treatment.
- Cleanliness, food safety, and drinking clean water can protect against infections that cause this disease.
HUS Sinhala, Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Sinhala, Kidney Disease, E. coli Infection, Bloody Diarrhea, Children's Disease, Kidney Failure
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