Question

Diphtheria is characterised by

• A. Hydrophobia
  
• B. Gum bleeding
  
• C. Dehydration
  
• D. Suffocation

Answer 1

The correct option is D Suffocation

Diphtheria :
Diphtheria is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It affects the nose and throat. This disease usually affects children up to five years of age. It causes inflammation of the mucous membranes, forming a false membrane in the throat creating problems while swallowing food and during breathing, resulting in slurred speech. It also causes hoarseness and difficulty in breathing which results in suffocation.

Figure: False membrane of throat in diphtheria

Rabies :
Rabies is caused by a Rhabdo virus (rabies virus). The virus enters the body by the bite of rabid (mad) dogs. Fear of water (hydrophobia) is the most important characteristic symptom.

Figure : Common symptoms of rabies

Cholera :
Cholera disease is caused by the bacterium, Vibrio cholerae. This disease is transmitted through contaminated foods and water and found in places where there is a lack of sanitation facilities. The patient suffering from cholera starts passing stools frequently, which are white like rice water, and repeats vomiting. This leads to dehydration.

Figure : Common symptoms of cholera

Gum bleeding :
Gum bleeding is a characteristic symptom of the disease gingivitis.
The cause for this disease is poor oral hygiene. Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness and swelling.

Final answer :
A) Suffocation