At first glance, it may seem that parasitic diseases are something quite far from an ordinary person who lives somewhere in Europe or North America. That happens because these conditions are silent and the infection does not manifest itself clearly.
However, over time, parasites bring many health issues. Therefore, it is easier to learn more about them in advance and regularly check for their presence.
Understanding Parasitic Diseases
This type of health problem means that the human body serves as a host for some other micro- or macro organism. Thus, some small living creature enters, for instance, the intestine or stays right under the skin, and lives utilizing the resources of the host.
Common Types of Parasitic Diseases
Nowadays three groups of parasites are identified as the most common among humans:
- Helminths or worms of different types live inside the gastrointestinal tract.
- Protozoa or tiny single-cell parasites that cause such states as malaria, toxoplasmosis, trichomoniasis, amebiasis, etc.
- Ectoparasites include a variety of insects and arthropods that live on the skin.
Untreated Parasitic Diseases
First and foremost, we should understand why these conditions often stay untreated. The thing is that the parasites do not reveal their presence right after the contamination. There may be no disturbing symptoms for months and even years.
Furthermore, the symptoms that appear are quite unspecific and the person may not think about checking for parasites when feeling fatigued or having some skin problems.
In addition, it may seem that these conditions are not widespread and may happen only somewhere in developing countries.
Short-term health impacts
The presence of an alien inside the body may be revealed due to the following symptoms:
- digestive problems such as diarrhea or constipation;
- abrupt changes in body weight;
- various skin disorders;
- constant fatigue;
- anemia and other diseases caused by deficiency of vital nutrients;
- muscle or joint pain;
- anxiety and mood swings.
Long-Term Health Complications
If the condition remains untreated for a long time, the body will be ruined from the inside. That happens because the parasite robs the host from vital nutrients and violates the normal work of organs and systems.
Organ Damage (Liver, Lungs, etc.)
Those parasites that live inside the body prefer some organ or system to stay inside. There, they slowly ruin the cells and disturb normal work, for instance, of the liver, intestine or lungs. This may cause other severe conditions related to these organs.
Malnutrition
The absence of enough quantity of vitamins, macro and microelements and other building blocks for the body leads to numerous health issues. It is just impossible for the body to work properly when there is a constant lack of this or that substance for everyday processes.
This may result in fatigue, anemia, disturbance of brainwork and other severe consequences.
Cognitive Impairment
Last but not least the brain will inevitably get affected by the presence of parasites. They rob the body of valuable nutrients and disturb the metabolic processes. It results, at first, in mood swings, anxiety and sleep disorders and may lead to severe cognitive impairment.
Psychological Impact of Parasitic Diseases
The presence of parasites causes inflammation as a response of the body. This damages the brainwork and disturbs the psychological sphere as well. In addition, a person may not understand what happens and get stressed, which may lead to depression.
Socio-Economic Impacts of Untreated Parasitic Diseases
Furthermore, we should mention the influence of this problem on society as a whole. Due to the spreading of these conditions, humans suffer not only in physiological and psychological ways but also at a country level.
Workforce productivity
Due to constant fatigue and other health issues, employees become less productive. They lack motivation and strength to perform even routine tasks not to mention doing something creative.
Effect on healthcare systems
The healthcare systems need to react and treat long-term health complications. At the same time, governments spend a lot of time on the prevention of these conditions.
Preventing Parasitic Diseases
It is much easier to prevent this problem than to treat it. Follow easy rules and do not neglect regular checkups.
You might find this helpful: Stromectol or Ivermectin
Personal Hygiene
Wash your hands and take a shower regularly whenever you are. Do not share personal items like towels and bedding with other people.
Safe Food and Water
Being in developing countries or affected regions drink only bottled water and well-cooked food. Be careful with raw meat and fish, and always wash vegetables and fruits.
Insect Repellents and Nets
Use insecticides to protect against dangerous insects that may be the source of some parasites. Protect the windows with nets.
Summary
Altogether, parasitic diseases are more widespread than we think. They may happen everywhere to anyone due to the numerous infection routes and possible ways to become a host for some species. That is why both prophylaxis and early diagnostics are important. Do not neglect these two options and regularly check your body for the presence of undesirable aliens.
FAQ
What happens if a parasite is untreated?
The more time the parasite stays inside the body of a host, the more harm it does to overall health. In addition, the infected person spreads the disease in the population.
What are neglected parasitic diseases?
This term includes such conditions as Chagas disease, cysticercosis, cyclosporiasis, toxocariasis, toxoplasmosis and trichomoniasis.
What are 3 common parasitic diseases?
According to the type of the parasite, the most common cases include protozoa, helminths and ectoparasites.
