Related Terms

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Background

• Some microscopic organisms called bacteria can cause diseases in humans. When this occurs, it is called a bacterial infection.
• There are thousands of different types of bacteria that live around the world. Only a few types of bacteria cause disease in humans.
• Some bacteria are actually beneficial for humans. For examples, bacteria help humans digest certain types of food and keep infectious organisms at bay. Bacteria may be found in the environment, on the skin, in the airways, in the mouth, in the vagina, and in the digestive tract.
• Disease-causing bacteria can cause an illness in humans when they enter the body. The bacteria may enter the body through the skin, nose, eyes, vagina, or mouth. Once the invading bacteria start to multiply and harm the body, it is called an infection. Infections can develop in any area of the body.
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Examples of Infections

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Causes

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Signs and Symptoms

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Complications

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Integrative Therapies

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Prevention

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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