Diphtheria Overview: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that affects the throat and nose, potentially causing breathing issues and heart complications. Learn its symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention through vaccination.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 21st Aug, 2025
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that can affect the nose, throat, and sometimes the skin. Although it is rare in countries with good vaccination programs, it can still be dangerous if not treated promptly. This article will help you understand what diphtheria is, its symptoms, causes, and how it can be treated and prevented.
What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is caused by a bacterium called Corynebacterium diphtheriae. This bacteria produces a toxin that can lead to severe complications, including difficulty breathing, heart problems, and even death if left untreated. The infection spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of Diphtheria
The symptoms of diphtheria usually appear 2 to 5 days after infection. They can vary depending on which part of the body is affected.
Common Symptoms:
- Sore throat and hoarseness
- Thick gray or white coating (pseudomembrane) in the throat or nose
- Mild fever and chills
- Swollen glands in the neck (bull neck appearance)
- Weakness and fatigue
Severe Symptoms (if the toxin spreads):
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Heart problems (myocarditis)
- Nerve damage (leading to paralysis)
- Kidney failure
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
Causes and Risk Factors
Diphtheria spreads through:
- Respiratory droplets (coughing or sneezing)
- Direct contact with an infected person’s sores or skin lesions
- Touching contaminated objects
Consult Top General Practitioner
Who is at Risk?
- Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals
- People living in crowded or unsanitary conditions
- Travelers visiting areas where diphtheria is common
How is Diphtheria Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose diphtheria by:
- Examining throat swabs (to detect the bacteria)
- Blood tests (to check for toxins)
- Throat culture (to confirm the infection)
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications.
Treatment for Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
1. Antitoxin
- A special antitoxin is given to neutralize the diphtheria toxin.
2. Antibiotics
- Antibiotics like penicillin or erythromycin help kill the bacteria.
3. Supportive Care
- Patients may need hospitalization, especially if they have breathing difficulties.
- Oxygen therapy or a ventilator may be required in severe cases.
Prevention: Vaccination is Key
The best way to prevent diphtheria is through vaccination. The DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) vaccine is
given to children, while the Tdap or Td booster is recommended for adults.
Vaccination Schedule:
- Children: 5 doses (at 2, 4, 6, and 15-18 months, and 4-6 years)
- Adults: Booster shot every 10 years
Other Preventive Measures:
- Practice good hygiene (washing hands frequently).
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
When to See a Doctor?
If you or your child experience:
- Severe sore throat with a grayish throat coating
- Difficulty breathing
- Swollen neck glands
Consult a doctor immediately. Early treatment can save lives.
Final Thoughts
Diphtheria is a preventable disease, thanks to vaccines. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations and maintaining good
hygiene can protect you and your loved ones. If you suspect an infection, do not delay—seek medical help right away.
Need Help?
If you have concerns about diphtheria or need vaccination advice, you can book a consultation with a doctor on Apollo 24|7. Stay safe and stay protected!Consult Top General Practitioner
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Consult Top General Practitioner
Dr. Swati Hanmanthappa
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Electronic City, Bengaluru
Dr. Dixant Chhikara
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS
Delhi
SKYNN CARE, Delhi
Dr. Bulbul Biswas
General Practitioner
35 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Maternity and child welfare
Kolkata
HERSTEL CARE CLINIC, Kolkata
Dr. Vandana Malik
General Practitioner
8 Years • MBBS, FAM
Noida
Skinlogics Clinic, Noida
Dr S Lakshmi Narasimha Reddy
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Kondapur
Singam's Kids Clinic, Kondapur