What are the Symptoms of African Sleeping Sickness?
October 14, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
African sleeping sickness, also known as African trypanosomiasis, is a parasitic infection caused by the Trypanosoma parasites, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected tsetse flies. The disease progresses in two stages, each with distinct symptoms:
First Stage (Early Stage) Symptoms: The first stage is characterized by non-specific symptoms that can be mild and may include:
- Fever:
- Recurrent fever, often in a cyclical pattern, which may come and go.
- Headaches:
- Frequent headaches, which can be severe.
- Joint and Muscle Aches:
- Muscle and joint pain and stiffness.
- Swelling of Lymph Nodes:
- Swelling of lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy).
- Fatigue:
- Generalized fatigue and weakness.
- Skin Lesions:
- Development of skin lesions or ulcers at the site of the tsetse fly bite.
- Itching:
- Itching and skin rashes.
- Sleep Disturbances:
- Insomnia or changes in sleep patterns.
- Enlarged Liver and Spleen:
- Enlarged liver and spleen (hepatosplenomegaly).
Second Stage (Late Stage) Symptoms: The second stage occurs when the parasite invades the central nervous system, causing more severe and specific neurological symptoms, which can be life-threatening if left untreated:
- Neurological Symptoms:
- Confusion, difficulty concentrating, and problems with coordination and balance.
- Behavioral Changes:
- Personality changes, agitation, and irritability.
- Sleep Disturbances:
- Disruption of the sleep-wake cycle, including daytime sleepiness and nighttime insomnia.
- Tremors and Muscle Weakness:
- Muscle weakness, tremors, and difficulty with fine motor skills.
- Sensory Disturbances:
- Sensory disturbances such as numbness, tingling, or pain.
- Paralysis:
- In severe cases, paralysis may occur, leading to difficulty moving or inability to move.
- Meningoencephalitis:
- Inflammation of the brain and its protective covering (meninges), leading to severe headaches, seizures, and altered mental status.
The name “African sleeping sickness” comes from the disruption of the sleep-wake cycle and the extreme fatigue that individuals experience, particularly in the late stage.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing African sleeping sickness effectively. If you have traveled to or reside in regions where this disease is endemic and are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention for evaluation and appropriate testing.