Diphtheria Overview

Causes

Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets (such as those produced by a cough or sneeze) of an infected person or someone who carries the bacteria but has no symptoms. Diphtheria can also be spread by contaminated objects or foods (such as contaminated milk). Symptoms usually occur 2 to 5 days after you have come in contact with the bacteria.

The bacteria most commonly infects the nose and throat. The throat infection causes a gray-to-black, tough, fiber-like covering, which can block the airways. In some cases, diphtheria may first infect the skin, producing skin lesions .

Once infected, dangerous substances produced by the bacteria can spread through your bloodstream to other organs, such as the heart, and cause significant damage. The most common complication is inflammation of the heart muscle ( myocarditis ). The nervous system is also frequently and ...