Learn From An Expert What The First Symptoms Of Malaria Are
On World Malaria Day in 2024, you may be surprised to learn that malaria, a potentially deadly disease, is caused by parasites that are spread to people by mosquito bites. Malaria may cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, chills, fever, and muscular pains. If left untreated, it may result in serious consequences or, in the worst instances, even organ failure.
Travelers visiting endemic regions need to take precautions such as using insect repellent, sleeping beneath mosquito netting, and taking antimalarial medications. Usually starting 7–30 days after being bitten by an infected insect, malaria symptoms might take up to a year to manifest. The following are the signs of malaria that you should be aware of right away:
Dr. Sanjay Verma, a senior consultant in the department of internal medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital in Dehradun, spoke about the warning signs of malaria that should not be disregarded in an interview with Jagran English.
Eight Signs of Malaria
Chills and fever: This is the most typical symptom; it often comes in cycles, with high fever intervals interspersed with chills and perspiration.
Headache: A typical symptom is widespread achiness or throbbing pain in the head.
Muscle Aches and Pains: You can feel generally ill and have aches and pains throughout your body.
Fatigue and Weakness: Malaria may cause severe exhaustion and low vitality.
Vomiting and Nausea: Experiencing nausea and vomiting is possible.
Loss of Appetite: The urge to eat may have lessened.
Diarrhea: There might be loose stools.
Cough: Other symptoms may also be present with a dry cough.
Four Red Flags of Severe Malaria
Bewilderment or Reduced Awareness: If you experience confusion or disorientation, get medical help right away.
Convulsions: Seizures may be a sign of severe malaria.
Severe Anemia: Malaria may significantly reduce red blood cell counts, which can lead to weakness, pale complexion, and shortness of breath.
Kidney Failure: Severe malaria episodes may impair renal function.
The symptoms might differ according to the type of Plasmodium, Dr. Sanjay stressed. It is imperative that you get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms, particularly if you have recently visited a region where malaria is prevalent. To avoid problems and guarantee a complete recovery, early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
