Overview
Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It typically causes high fever, shaking chills, and general discomfort. The disease is most common in tropical and subtropical countries, with nearly 290 million cases and over 400,000 deaths annually. World health programs distribute preventive drugs, bed nets, and insecticides to reduce infections. Symptoms may include fever, chills, general discomfort, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle or joint pain, fatigue, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, and cough. If you experience a fever after living in or traveling to a high-risk malaria region, consult a doctor. Malaria can be fatal, especially in cases caused by the Plasmodium species common in Africa, and can lead to complications such as anemia, respiratory distress, and organ failure.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, general feeling of discomfort, headache, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle or joint pain, fatigue, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, cough, and in severe cases, cerebral malaria, breathing problems, organ failure, anemia, and low blood sugar. These symptoms typically begin within a few weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito. If you experience a fever while living in or after traveling to a high-risk malaria region, it's best to talk to your doctor.
Risk Factors
The greatest risk factor for developing malaria is living in or visiting areas where the disease is common, such as Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands, Central America, and northern South America. Risk depends on local malaria control, seasonal changes in malaria rates, and the precautions taken to prevent mosquito bites. Other risk factors for more severe disease include young children and infants, older adults, travelers from areas with no malaria, and pregnant women and their unborn children.
Development
Malaria is caused by a single-celled parasite of the genus Plasmodium. When an infected mosquito bites a person, the parasite enters the person's bloodstream, where it multiplies and spreads throughout the body. The parasite infects and destroys red blood cells, leading to the characteristic symptoms of malaria, such as fever, chills, headache, and fatigue. There are several types of Plasmodium that can cause malaria, including P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae, and P. ovale. Each type can cause slightly different symptoms and may have different rates of transmission or severity. P. falciparum is the most dangerous, accounting for the majority of malaria-related deaths. Some people who have malaria experience cycles of malaria "attacks." An attack usually starts with shivering and chills, followed by a high fever, followed by sweating and a return to normal temperature. Malaria signs and symptoms typically begin within a few weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito. However, some types of malaria parasites can lie dormant in your body for up to a year.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if malaria is suspected, especially if you have recently traveled to a high-risk malaria region and are experiencing symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle or joint pain, fatigue, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, or cough. Seek emergency medical attention if you have severe symptoms.
Diagnosis
To diagnose malaria, your doctor will likely review your medical history and recent travel, conduct a physical exam, and order blood tests. Blood tests can indicate the presence of the parasite in the blood, which confirms that you have malaria. They can also identify the type of malaria parasite causing your symptoms, determine if the infection is caused by a parasite resistant to certain drugs, and assess any serious complications. Some blood tests can produce results in less than 15 minutes, while others may take several days to complete. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may order additional diagnostic tests to assess possible complications.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of malaria include cerebral malaria, pulmonary edema, organ failure, anemia, hypoglycemia, and seizures. These complications can be life-threatening and require prompt medical attention.
Prevention
Malaria can be prevented by taking steps to avoid mosquito bites, using preventive drugs, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets. It is important to consult your doctor to determine the best preventive measures based on your travel destination and individual health. Additionally, protective clothing and the use of insect repellents can help reduce the risk of contracting malaria.
Treatment
Treatments for malaria typically involve antimalarial drugs that target the parasite itself or reduce symptoms. Some common antimalarial drugs include:
- Chloroquine
- Mefloquine
- Amodiaquine
- Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine
- Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) These drugs work by targeting different life cycle stages of the malaria parasite. Treatment usually involves a combination of drugs to increase effectiveness and reduce the risk of developing resistance. It's important to start treatment as soon as possible to minimize the risk of complications and reduce the severity of symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, oxygen, or blood transfusions. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment recommendations.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for malaria, you should be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions and ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restricting your diet. Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to malaria. Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you're taking, and consider bringing a family member or friend along for support. Additionally, it's helpful to write down key personal information, such as any recent travel, vaccination history, and exposure to mosquitoes or infected individuals. Be prepared to discuss your symptoms, travel history, and any medications taken to prevent or treat malaria.