What is Malaria?

What is Malaria?

by | Jul 31, 2024 | Seasonal Diseases

Malaria is a deadly disease transmitted by a mosquito infested with microscopic parasites. When the insect bites, it injects malaria parasites into your circulation. Malaria is caused by parasites rather than a virus or bacteria. Malaria, if not treated, can cause severe health issues such as seizures, brain damage, difficulty breathing, organ failure, and death. 

Malaria occurs all across the world, but is more common in developing countries and locations with warm temperatures and high humidity, such as:
  • Africa.
  • Central and southern America.
  • Dominican Republic, Haiti, and other Caribbean islands.
  • Eastern Europe.
  • South and Southeast Asia.
  • Islands in the Central and South Pacific Ocean.

What are the symptoms of Malaria?

Malaria symptoms are similar to flu symptoms. They include the following:
  • Fever and sweating.
  • Chills that shake your whole body.
  • Headache and muscle aches.
  • Fatigue.
  • Chest pain, breathing problems and cough.
  • Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
  • As malaria gets worse, it can cause anemia and jaundice.

Malaria symptoms often occur 10 days to one month after the person is infected. Symptoms may be minimal, depending on the parasite. Some people do not feel sick for up to a year following a mosquito bite. Parasites can sometimes stay in the body for years without creating symptoms. Some kinds of malaria, depending on the parasite, can recur. The parasites remain inactive in your liver before being discharged into your bloodstream years later. When the parasites resume their circulation, the symptoms return.

What really causes malaria?

When a mosquito bites someone with malaria, the mosquito becomes infected. When a mosquito bites another person, it transmits a parasite into their circulation. There, the parasites multiply. Humans can be infected with five different forms of malaria parasites.

In rare situations, pregnant women with malaria might transmit the disease to their infants before or during birth. Malaria can be transmitted by blood transfusions, organ donations, and hypodermic needles, however this is extremely unusual. 

How is malaria diagnosed?

Your health care practitioner will evaluate you and inquire about your symptoms and travel histories. Your provider will draw a blood sample and send it to a lab to determine whether you have malaria parasites. The blood test will inform your doctor whether you have malaria and which sort of parasite is causing your symptoms. This information will be used by your provider to decide the best course of therapy.

Can Malaria Be Prevented?

Medications can significantly minimize the odds of contracting malaria. You should also take care to prevent mosquito bites. To decrease your risks of contracting malaria, you should:
  • Apply mosquito repellent with DEET to any exposed skin.
  • Drape mosquito net over the mattresses.
  • Install screens on windows and doors.
  • Permethrin is an insect repellent that can be applied to clothing, mosquito nets, tents, sleeping bags, and other materials.
  • To keep your skin covered, wear long pants and sleeves. 

Malaria, a severe parasite disease caused by mosquitos, is common in warm, humid climates. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and exhaustion may emerge 10 days to a month after infection. Early detection and treatment are critical for avoiding consequences like seizures and organ failure. While medication can dramatically lower infection risk, preventative measures such as insect repellents and bed nets are critical. Remember that malaria is treatable, but taking preemptive measures is essential for remaining safe.

 Dengue 101: A Beginner’s Guide

 Dengue 101: A Beginner’s Guide

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Seasonal Diseases, Viral Diseases

Dengue fever is a sickness caused by the bite of a mosquito carrying one of four varieties of dengue virus (DENV) – DEN 1, DEN 2, DEN 3, or DEN 4 – that occurs in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The virus is most typically found in tropical and subtropical areas such as Central and South America, Africa, sections of Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Mild dengue fever results in a high fever and flu-like symptoms. The severe type of dengue fever, commonly known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, can result in severe bleeding, an abrupt decline in blood pressure (shock), and death. Dengue fever is not communicable from person to person, except when transmitted from a pregnant woman to her child. 

Dengue fever is most prevalent in Central and South America, Africa, sections of Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Research suggests that about 400 million people get infected with dengue each year, yet most (about 80%) exhibit no symptoms.

What are the signs and symptoms of Dengue fever to look out for? 

The majority of dengue infections are symptomless. If you experience any symptoms, a high fever (104°F/40°C) is usual, as well as:

  • Rash.
  • Severe pain behind your eyes.
  • Vomiting or nausea.
  • Joint, bone, and muscle aches.

The symptoms of dengue fever can linger for three to seven days and begin four to ten days after a mosquito bite. 

What causes Dengue fever?

Of the four dengue viruses, one is responsible for dengue fever. The dengue virus can enter your bloodstream and replicate when you are bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus. Blood clot-forming components and blood vessel structure can be destroyed by the virus. This, along with some chemicals produced by your immune system can cause blood to flow out of your vessels and cause internal bleeding. This results in the potentially fatal symptoms of severe dengue. 

What is Dengue Hemorrhagic fever?

Severe dengue or Dengue Hemorrhagic fever is the potentially fatal escalation of dengue fever symptoms. Severe dengue warning signals typically appear 24 to 48 hours after the fever has subsided.

It is a potentially lethal medical emergency. If you have dengue or reside in a dengue-prone area, get help as soon as possible if you encounter any of the following symptoms:
  • Abdominal or stomach ache.
  • Throwing up often.
  • Vomiting blood or getting blood in your stool.
  • Bleeding gums or nosebleeds.
  • Excessive exhaustion, agitation, restlessness or irritation. 

How is Dengue fever diagnosed?

Blood testing is used to diagnose dengue fever. To check for dengue virus symptoms, your healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein and send it to a lab. In addition, it can reveal which of the four versions you have. A blood test might be used by your medical expert to search for additional infections that may be causing your symptoms.

How is Dengue fever treated?

Dengue fever cannot be treated with medication. Symptom management is the sole treatment available for dengue fever. Pay attention to the advice given by your healthcare provider, which may include:
  • Consuming an adequate amount of water and other liquids to stay hydrated.
  • Resting as much as you can.
  • Solely using acetaminophen to treat pain.
  • Take no aspirin or ibuprofen. Your risk of potentially fatal internal bleeding may rise as a result. 

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that can range in severity from mild to fatal. A high fever and flu-like symptoms are typical, however most people don’t feel anything. Severe dengue hemorrhagic fever can cause shock and internal bleeding. It’s critical to identify warning indicators early on, such as intense stomach pain or recurrent vomiting. While there isn’t a known treatment, symptoms can be managed with the use of appropriate pain medicines like acetaminophen, lots of rest, and staying hydrated. As soon as possible, seek medical advice from a physician if you suspect dengue.

Winter is here: Protect yourself from the Flu! 

Winter is here: Protect yourself from the Flu! 

by | Nov 30, 2023 | healthy, Healthy life, Hygiene, Seasonal Diseases

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, poses a significant health risk globally, including in India. The best defense against this contagious respiratory illness is the flu vaccine. Understanding its importance, types, and timing is crucial, especially considering India’s unique climate and health landscape.

Types of Flu Viruses and the Vaccine

There are four main types of flu viruses – A, B, C, and D. In India, the A and B types are primarily responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks. The flu vaccine, developed annually, targets the most common circulating strains, adapting to changes in these viruses.

Symptoms of the Flu

Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Quick onset of feeling ill
  • Fever or chills
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches
  • Sore throat
  • Cough and headache

Children may also experience nasal congestion, vomiting, or diarrhea. It’s important to note that not all flu cases involve a fever.

Why the Flu Shot is Essential 

  • Effectiveness: The flu shot’s effectiveness varies (19% to 60%), but it significantly reduces the risk of contracting the flu.
  • Annual Requirement: Due to the ever-changing nature of flu viruses, annual vaccination is recommended.
  • High-Risk Groups: Elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses are more susceptible to severe flu complications.
  • Community Protection: Vaccination helps protect those who cannot get vaccinated, like infants under six months.

Exceptions

Certain individuals should consult a doctor before getting the flu vaccine, such as those with severe allergies to vaccine ingredients or patients with Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

Benefits of the Flu Shot

  • Reduces the likelihood and severity of flu
  • Decreases the chance of complications
  • Protects vulnerable groups in the community

Flu Shot Timing

The best time to get vaccinated is before the onset of the flu season, which can vary regionally. Generally, getting the shot in early autumn is advisable. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop immunity.

The flu vaccine is a crucial tool in combating influenza. With our diverse population and unique health challenges, widespread flu vaccination can play a significant role in maintaining public health, especially among high-risk groups. Protect yourself and your community by getting the flu shot annually.

Common Winter Diseases

Common Winter Diseases

by | Dec 20, 2021 | Seasonal Diseases

Although the winters are cold, a sudden shift in weather can often provoke certain ailments. You try your hardest to keep yourself and your family healthy, yet you may still become unwell despite your efforts. People are spending more time indoors, making it easier for illnesses to spread from one person to another, The chilly, dry air may reduce resistance. Knowing what signs and symptoms to watch for can also help you decide whether or not you need to see a doctor. Here are several frequent ailments that people get at winter time of the year:

The Different Types of Winter Diseases

Common Cold

You have an infection in your nose and throat. Perhaps your ears as well. How long do you think it’ll last?

From a few days to a few weeks. You’re undoubtedly aware that the common cold has no cure. Rest and fluids may help you recover faster. The majority of people are contagious for roughly a week, beginning the day before they have symptoms.

Symptoms:

  • Runny nose
  • Congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Sneezing

Flu

While seasonal influenza (flu) viruses are detected year-round, flu viruses most common during the fall and winter. The exact timing and duration of flu seasons varies, but influenza activity often begins to increase in October. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, although significant activity can last as late as May.

Symptoms:

  • Fever with chills.
  • Body pains.
  • Headache.
  • Running nose, cough.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Fatigue ,weakness

seek medical adviced once you notice any symptoms above, so your physician would start you on antiviral medications.
The best way to reduce your risk from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated every year

Pneumonia

What exactly is it? Your lungs are infected, causing pus and other liquids to fill the air sacs.

Viruses are to blame for around a third of the cases. The rest are caused by inhaled germs or fungus, especially in patients who have been weakened by surgery, sickness, age, or smoking.

Symptoms:

  • Severe cough with or without phlegm
  • High fever with chills and headache
  • Shortness of breath
  • decreased oxygen levels (if spo2 less than 95%)
  • Diarrhoea

pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics. Most symptoms last around two weeks, while the cough can last up to two months.

  • Acute Bronchitis & Bronchial Asthma

    You are unable to stop coughing. You most likely began with a dry cough that quickly developed into a mucus-producing cough.

    Symptoms to keep a check

    • fever with chills
    • Runny nose
    • Sore throat
    • Shortness of breath

    Also it is recommneded not to stop using inhalers prescribed by your doctor. Discontinuing may aggrevate your symptoms in a short span of time.

    Ear Infection 

    Acute ear infections, caused by bacteria are a frequent winter disease that causes inflammation and fluid build-up in the middle ear. Colds, smoking, sinus infections, and weather changes are other reasons for acute ear infections.

    Heart Disease

    Cold weather triggers heart Attacks the exact reason remains unknown but it is thought that cold weather causes narrowing of blood vessels thus reducing blood supply to the muscles. Constriction of coronary(heart) arteries leads to a poor contribution of blood to the heart. An increased load on the heart due to winter makes the heart work harder to pump the blood and, it increases pressure may result in a heart attack . It is safe to keep ourselves warm and hydrated to be healthy.

    In both sexes, overall levels of physical inactivity is strongly positively associated with cardiovascular events. Cardiovascular deaths due to stroke account for the leading number of deaths among women as well as men. A seasonal occurrence of Angina Pectoris seems different according to the gender. Significant incidence relative ratios were found higher in males than female.Seasonality of heart attcks was found in most age and sex groups, with men consistently exhibiting a stronger seasonality pattern, although this difference decreases with advancing age. Strokes due to venous or arterial thrombosis are more frequent in women of menopausal age. These variations may be due to the hormonal changes that occur in the body, especially during the early stages of the menopause transition time or later.

    Symptoms:

    • left chest pain
    • radiating chest pain to left hand, back & jaw
    • Dizziness and sweating
    • Heartburn
    • Shortness of breath, increased on exertion.

    Skin Problems

    As the weather begins to cool down, your skin can react negatively to the seasonal change and you might develop one of the following common winter skin diseases

    • Psoriasis
    • Dermatitis
    • Urticaria
    • Dry, flakey scalp
    • Eczema

    Symptoms include:

    • redness of skin
    • itching and inflammation over skin.
    • rough or scaly patches over hands & legs
    • bumps or blisters

    As per many stuides & practical experinces, it is observed that there will be mild to severe flare up in many of the above conditions.

    Joint Pains

    The weight of the air surrounding us leads to winter knee pain which is known as barometric pressure. When cold weather arrives, the fluids within your knee’s joints begin to expand the sensitivity of nerves in the joint, which aggrevates joint pains, and increase in joint stiffness.

    Conditions in which flare up is observed are 

    • Rheumatoid arthritis
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Psoriatic arthritis

    Conclusion

    It’s crucial to follow hygienic habits , such as hand washing, coughing into a tissue, and avoiding contact with other people when you’re sick, no matter what time of year it is. However, if your symptoms aren’t improving or are growing worse, it’s time to consult your physician.