Certain bacteria cause actinomycosis. They are normal in the mouth and sometimes in the bowels. They get into the body through breaks in the tissues. Tooth decay causes infections in the mouth and jaw. This is the most common type.
Your chances of this infection are higher if you:
Have dental problems or had dental work
Draw in saliva, food, or drink into your lungs
Have long-lasting lung disease
Had bowel surgery
Have problems with an intrauterine device (IUD)
Have weak immunity
Symptoms depend on the where the infection starts. These may involve:
Swelling in the mouth, neck, or jaw
Pus that has tiny, yellowish specks
Pus that drains through the skin
Cough—with or without phlegm or blood
Swelling or a firm mass in the abdomen—mainly in the lower part
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. You may have:
Actinomycosis. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/anaerobic-bacteria/actinomycosis. Updated January 2018. Accessed May 21, 2018.
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