Deadly Superbug and Flesh-Eating Bacteria
PAGE 4
Today, the scar on Tanya's upper body reminds her that she's lucky to be alive. Since doctors had to remove almost 9 pounds of flesh and muscle to rid her body of the bacteria, Tanya is left with nothing more than a thin layer of skin to protect her rib cage and right lung. "It's very fragile," she says. "Even a pinprick could go right into my lung or something, and I could die."
Watch as Tanya talks about life after amputation.
How did a small cut do so much damage in less than three days? Dr. Oz says necrotizing fasciitis burrows into the muscle and liquefies the surrounding tissue. "That's why it's called the flesh-eating bacteria—because it literally takes away the inside of your body," Dr. Oz says. "On the outside when you look at it, it doesn't look any different."
As the bacteria eat away at a person's flesh, Dr. Oz says toxins are released, which can destroy the lungs and kidneys and cause the body to shut down.
Watch as Tanya talks about life after amputation.
How did a small cut do so much damage in less than three days? Dr. Oz says necrotizing fasciitis burrows into the muscle and liquefies the surrounding tissue. "That's why it's called the flesh-eating bacteria—because it literally takes away the inside of your body," Dr. Oz says. "On the outside when you look at it, it doesn't look any different."
As the bacteria eat away at a person's flesh, Dr. Oz says toxins are released, which can destroy the lungs and kidneys and cause the body to shut down.
Please note that Harpo Productions, Inc., OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, Discovery Communications LLC and their affiliated companies and entities have no affiliation with and do not endorse those entities or websites referenced above, which are provided solely as a courtesy. Please conduct your own independent investigation (including an investigation as to whether any contributions are tax deductible) before donating to any charity, project or organization. This information is provided for your reference only.
NEXT STORY
