What are the Symptoms of Chagas Disease in Humans?
October 15, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis, is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. The disease progresses through acute and chronic phases, each with its own set of symptoms:
Acute Phase:
- Fever: Many people experience an initial fever that may be mild or severe.
- Fatigue: Generalized fatigue and weakness are common symptoms during the acute phase.
- Body Aches: Muscle aches and joint pain can occur throughout the body.
- Headache: Persistent or severe headaches may be present during the acute phase.
- Swelling at the Infection Site: Swelling or a localized skin lesion (chagoma) at the site of parasite entry (often the bite of an infected triatomine bug or through mucous membranes).
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Swelling of lymph nodes, especially near the site of infection.
- Rash: Skin rash or generalized rashes may appear during the early stages of the disease.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals experience nausea and vomiting.
Chronic Phase: Chronic Chagas disease may not present symptoms for years or even decades after the initial infection. When symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Cardiac Complications:
- Heart-related issues, such as an enlarged heart (cardiomegaly), irregular heartbeat, heart failure, and chest pain due to myocarditis.
- Difficulty in conducting electrical impulses in the heart (arrhythmias).
- Blood clots forming in the heart or other parts of the body.
- Gastrointestinal Complications:
- Enlargement of the esophagus (megaesophagus) or colon (megacolon), leading to difficulty swallowing or severe constipation.
- Digestive problems, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and difficulty in passing stool.
- Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia):
- Problems with swallowing due to enlargement of the esophagus (megaesophagus).
- Malaise and Fatigue:
- Persistent fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell.
- Sudden Death:
- In severe cases, Chagas disease can lead to sudden cardiac arrest or other life-threatening complications.
Chagas disease can have serious long-term health effects, particularly affecting the heart and digestive system. If you suspect you have Chagas disease or have been exposed to areas where the disease is prevalent, it’s important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management. Early detection and appropriate treatment can help manage the disease and prevent complications.