A BACTERIAL INFECTION FROM CONTAMINATED WATER OR ANIMALS
Leptospirosis
A bacterial infection contracted from contaminated water or animals, causing fever, body pain, jaundice and kidney issues. Early antibiotic treatment is highly effective.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira species, contracted through contact with water, soil or food contaminated by urine of infected animals — most commonly rats, but also cattle, dogs and pigs. It is particularly common during the monsoon and in flooded environments. The illness can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe forms involving jaundice, kidney failure, lung bleeding and shock. Typical symptoms include high fever, severe muscle aches (especially in the calves), headache, red eyes, jaundice and reduced urine output. Early antibiotic therapy combined with supportive care is highly effective. Severe cases need hospital admission and intensive monitoring. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides complete leptospirosis care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Contact with water or soil contaminated by infected animal urine
- Exposure to flooded areas during the monsoon
- Wading or swimming in untreated water sources
- Occupational exposure — farmers, sewer workers, veterinarians
- Walking barefoot through contaminated water
- Open wounds or cuts in contact with contaminated water
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Blood tests for leptospira antibodies; supportive blood and urine tests
Mild flu-like illness · Moderate disease · Severe disease (Weil's disease)
Antibiotic therapy and supportive care; ICU support in severe cases
Kidney failure, jaundice, lung bleeding and shock in severe forms
Avoid wading in flood water and use protective footwear in high-risk work
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Early Antibiotic Therapy with Organ Support
The most effective approach is early antibiotic therapy started on clinical suspicion, combined with supportive care and prompt management of organ involvement. Severe cases need hospital admission, dialysis for kidney failure and ICU-level care.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms and exposure history, examines for jaundice and other features, and orders specific blood tests.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A treatment plan is created based on severity and organ involvement, including decisions on admission and need for specialist referral.
- 3
Medical Management
Antibiotic therapy, hydration, supportive care, and monitoring of kidney and liver function; ICU and dialysis if severe.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up to confirm recovery, monitor any residual organ effects and counsel on prevention at home and at work.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Oral Antibiotic Therapy for Mild Cases
Oral antibiotic treatment is highly effective in mild to moderate leptospirosis, especially when started early.
IV Antibiotic Therapy for Severe Cases
Intravenous antibiotic therapy is used in severe disease and patients needing hospital admission.
Supportive Care
Hydration, fever control, rest and symptom relief support recovery during the acute illness.
Dialysis if Renal Failure (Referral for nephrology)
Patients with kidney failure may need dialysis support as part of treatment of severe disease.
Monitoring for Organ Involvement
Close monitoring of kidney function, liver function and lung status helps detect complications early and manage them in time.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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