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Sleeping sickness, or African trypanosomiasis, is a serious and potentially life-threatening infectious disease caused by parasites of the Trypanosoma brucei species. As the transmission of this disease affects humans, the World Health Organisation categorizes it as a Neglected Tropical Disease. It is unfortunate that the prevalence of sleeping sickness is on the rise in some parts of Sub-Saharan Africa.
What are the symptoms of sleeping sickness?
The symptoms of sleeping sickness vary and can be categorized into two stages. Early symptoms include fever, joint pain, swelling of the lymph nodes, fatigue, and headaches. As the disease progresses, it can cause confusion, difficulty sleeping, seizures, personality changes and intense itching. If left untreated, sleeping sickness can damage the nervous system and lead to an untimely death.
How can sleeping sickness be managed?
Effective management of sleeping sickness starts with prompt recognition of the symptoms. The accurate diagnosis and monitoring of sleeping sickness can be done through screening tests and visual examination for the presence of the parasite. Treatment of sleeping sickness largely depends on the severity of the disease. When caught early, the disease can be effectively managed with drug therapy, followed by regular monitoring. However, if the disease has already damaged the central nervous system, additional measures such as frequent monitoring of the patient’s condition and the use of additional medications may be required.
How can I reduce the risk of sleeping sickness?
Sleeping sickness is primarily transmitted through the tsetse fly, which is commonly found in Sub-Saharan Africa. While there is no definite way to completely prevent the disease, there are simple measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection. Avoiding activities that can lead to contact with tsetse flies and wearing a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and gloves while outside can help reduce the risk. Additionally, using insect repellents and screening windows and sleeping shelters with nets can provide additional protection against the tsetse fly.
By understanding the symptoms of sleeping sickness, recognizing the causes of the disease, and taking preventive measures, the risk of developing sleeping sickness can be significantly reduced. Early diagnosis and prompt management are key to successfully managing the disease and reducing its associated risks.