Malaria: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
What is the definition of malaria?
The bite of an Anopheles mosquito carrying the infection transmits malaria, a potentially fatal condition. An infected mosquito transmits the Plasmodium parasite to your body through its bite. Upon entering the body, the parasites migrate to the liver, where they develop into a severe threat. The adult parasites infect red blood cells within a few days of entering the bloodstream.
These parasites exhibit a rapid growth rate and require 48 to 72 hours to penetrate red blood cells and rupture them. The symptoms manifest in cycles that last two to three days as the parasites persist in their pursuit of red blood cells.
Malaria Causes
Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malaria, and Plasmodium falciparum are the four categories of malaria parasites that have the potential to infect humanity. Without prompt treatment, Plasmodium falciparum is more deadly than the other parasite. An infected mother can also transmit malaria to a neonate, a condition known as congenital malaria. Infected blood can also transmit malaria. Malaria is also frequently caused by:
- Syringes and needles are shared.
- A blood transfusion
- Transplantation of an organ
- Malaria Symptoms
Malaria symptoms are often characterized by chills, headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting, and they are quite similar to those of the viral illness. The loss of red blood cells can also lead to anemia and jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes.
If you don’t treat the infection, the symptoms could worsen. These include kidney disease, convulsions, disorientation, and even coma and death. Malaria symptoms typically manifest within 10 days to 4 weeks of infection. Occasionally, symptoms may not manifest for several months, as specific parasites that cause malaria can infiltrate the body and remain latent for an extended period.
What is the treatment for malaria?
P. falciparum, the parasite that causes malaria, can be particularly deadly. If you experience any symptoms of malaria, please visit the nearest multi-specialty facility. The treatment for malaria will differ based on the type of parasite that has infected you.
Because of the parasite’s drug resistance, the prescribed medication may occasionally be ineffective in treating the condition as a result of the parasite’s drug resistance. In such a scenario, your physician may adopt an alternative malaria treatment strategy and prescribe a different medication or a combination of drugs. Your medication will also be contingent upon the location of the infection, your medical history, the severity of the condition, whether you are pregnant, and any other medications you are taking.
Malaria Prevention
Malaria vaccines are not currently available. If you live or travel to a malaria-endemic area, see a doctor. You may administer preventive medication to alleviate the illness. You should take the same prescription medications used to treat the disease before, during, and after your travel. If you live in a malaria-prone area, we recommend discussing long-term prevention strategies with your physician. Additionally, it is possible to prevent mosquito bites by lying under a net and adhering to comparable precautionary measures. Using insect covers or DEET-containing bug sprays can also facilitate infection prevention.
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