Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, is a disease caused by parasitic worms called schistosomes that enter the body through the skin when a person comes into contact with contaminated freshwater. The signs of schistosomiasis can vary depending on the stage of infection and the organs affected, but there are several key symptoms and indicators to watch for.
**Early Signs (Within Days to Weeks of Infection):**
– **Itchy Skin or Rash:** One of the first signs is a rash or itchy skin at the site where the parasite penetrated the skin. This can appear within days after exposure to contaminated water and is often described as a “swimmer’s itch.”
– **Swelling and Redness:** The skin may become red and swollen around the entry point of the parasite.
**Acute Phase (Weeks to Months After Infection):**
– **Fever:** As the parasites mature and start to lay eggs, the immune system reacts, often causing a fever that can be mild to moderate.
– **Muscle Aches and Joint Pain:** Many infected individuals experience muscle soreness and joint pain, which can feel similar to flu symptoms.
– **Fatigue and Weakness:** General tiredness and a feeling of weakness are common as the body fights the infection.
– **Cough and Respiratory Symptoms:** Some people develop a dry cough or chest discomfort during this phase.
– **Abdominal Pain and Diarrhea:** If the intestines are affected, symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, and sometimes blood in the stool may occur.
**Chronic Phase (Months to Years After Infection):**
– **Blood in Urine or Stool:** Depending on the species of schistosome, blood may appear in urine (common with Schistosoma haematobium) or stool (common with Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum). This is a key sign of ongoing infection.
– **Enlarged Liver or Spleen:** The immune response to eggs trapped in organs can cause enlargement of the liver or spleen, leading to discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
– **Bladder and Kidney Problems:** Chronic infection can cause inflammation and scarring in the bladder, leading to painful urination, frequent urination, or urinary tract infections. In severe cases, kidney damage may occur.
– **Intestinal Damage:** Long-term infection can cause thickening and scarring of the intestinal walls, leading to chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition.
– **Genital Symptoms:** In some cases, especially with Schistosoma haematobium, genital lesions, pain, or bleeding may occur.
– **Neurological Symptoms:** Though rare, if the parasites or their eggs reach the nervous system, symptoms like seizures, paralysis, or spinal cord inflammation can develop.
**Additional Notes:**
– The parasite can suppress pain signals during early infection, so initial symptoms might be mild or unnoticed.
– Symptoms can vary widely depending on the species of schistosome, the intensity of infection, and the individual’s immune response.
– Because schistosomiasis is not contagious from person to person, symptoms arise only from direct exposure to contaminated water.
Recognizing these signs early is important for diagnosis and treatment, as untreated schistosomiasis can lead to serious long-term health problems affecting the liver, kidneys, bladder, and other organs.
