Malaria Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Malaria is a major infectious disease, caused by a parasite of the Plasmodium genus. Malaria infects a human through the bite of a female Anopheles malaria mosquito. When a person gets infected, the parasite migrates to the liver, causing a subsequent attack on the red blood cells, resulting in an increase in body temperature.

Malaria is widely prevalent among tropical and subtropical countries and is considered life-threatening if left undiagnosed and untreated on time.

Malaria Transmission Process

Malaria is not transmitted from one person to another. Malaria is transmitted via the bites of infected mosquitoes.

The modes of transmission are:

• Bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito
• Blood transfusion from an infected person (rare)
• From mother to infant at time of pregnancy or delivery (rare)
• Using contaminated needles (rare)

Understanding the modes of transmission can aid in their prevention.

Early Symptoms of Malaria

The symptoms manifest themselves between 7-14 days after being bitten by the mosquito. Sometimes, it takes a longer time.

Early signs are as follows:

• Chills with fever
• Headache
• Muscle and joint pain
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Fatigue and weakness

These symptoms can be mistaken for viral fever.

Classic Malaria Symptoms

As the disease progresses, there can also be some common symptoms.

Common features include:

• High fever with chills
• Sweating profusely after fever
• Episodes of shivering
• Body aches
• Vomiting or Diarrhea

The symptoms may appear in cycles based on the parasite.

Warning Signs:

• Altered consciousness
• Severe Anemia
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Skin and eye discoloration
• Kidney failure
• Low blood sugar

Severe cases of malaria are a medical emergency that needs hospitalization.

Who is at Higher Risk

Some people are susceptible to dangerous forms of malaria. High-risk persons are:

• Pregnant women
• Children below five years
• Senior citizens
• Individuals with an impaired immune system
• Visitors to endemic regions

Additionally, extra care is necessary for such people.

Diagnosis of Malaria

Early diagnosis is also important for proper treatment. Typical methods of diagnosis include:

• Blood Smear Examination
• Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs)
• Complete blood count to check for anemia

Testing can determine the type of parasite and the corresponding treatment.\

Treatment of Malaria

Malaria can be treated when detected early. Depending on the parasite and the level of the disease, treatment is available. The treatment may involve:

• Antimalarial drugs
• Combination therapy for preventing resistance
• Inpatient care for more severe cases
• Supportive therapy for fever, anemia and dehydration

Self-medication should be avoided, as it may exacerbate the disease.

Complications of Untreated Malaria

Inappropriate or delayed treatment can cause severe consequences. There may be:

• Severe anemia
• Cerebral malaria
• Organ failure
• Pregnancy complications
• Death in severe cases

Timely medical attention can prevent dangers.

Malaria Prevention

It involves prevention with a focus on avoiding bites and eliminating breeder mosquitoes. Preventive measures that would be effective include:

• Bed net use while sleeping
• Using insect repellents
• Wearing full-sleeved clothes
• Dealing with stagnant water around homes
• Indoor insecticide sprays
• Regular antenatal check-ups
• Timely evaluation of fever

Importance of Early Medical Attention

Early consultation for fever, including in regions prone to malaria, can help. Postponing treatment means increasing the chances of developing complications and contagion. Fever persisting beyond two days should be referred to a doctor.

At Prakash Hospital, patients with possible cases of malaria are immediately tested and appropriately treated depending on the species. The hospital is keen on early identification, successful treatment with anti-malarial drugs, and prevention of any possible complications. Education of patients on prevention is also carried out.

If diagnosed and treated in time, most people usually overcome this disease completely. Precautions, knowledge and early care remain the most effective measures in combating this particular disease.