Malaria is considered as a dangerous ailment transmitted via a bite of an Anopheles mosquito. When bit by a mosquito, the Plasmodium parasite, specifically P. falciparum is released into the bloodstream.
The parasites move to the liver where they reach maturity. After a span of several days, the parasites move into the bloodstream and start to infect the red blood cells. Within 48-72 hours, the parasites within the red blood cells start to propagate, resulting to the rupture of the infected cells.
Take note the that parasites continue to infect the red blood cells. This triggers symptoms that manifest as cycles that last 2-3 days at a time.
What are the signs?
The signs of malaria generally arise within 10 days up to 4 weeks after being infected. In some instances, the signs might not develop for several months.
The usual signs of malaria include:
- High fever
- Chills ranging from moderate to severe
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Anemia
- Diarrhea
- Convulsions
- Muscle pain
- Blood-streaked stools
- Coma
Management
Malaria can be dangerous especially if the cause is P. falciparum. The treatment is generally administered in a healthcare facility.
Medications are prescribed by the doctor based on the type of parasite present. In some instances, the drug given could not clear the infection due to resistance of the parasite to drugs.
Once this occurs, the doctor might administer more than one drug or change medications to manage the condition.
What is the outlook?
An individual with malaria who was given treatment has a good long-term outlook. In case complications occur, the outlook might not be good.
Cerebral malaria which results to swollen blood vessels in the brain can lead to brain damage. If the parasite is resistant to the drugs given, the outlook might be poor.