THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:
- Causes
- Symptoms
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- Elephantiasis is a disease that affects people of all ages.
Elephantiasis, also widely recognized as lymphatic
filariasis, is a very rare mosquito-borne disease.
The common name comes from the fact that it causes your arms
and legs to swell and become much larger than they should be if you have it.
Swollen sex organs and breasts are also possible. The affected skin can thicken
and harden, resembling that of an elephant.
It is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical climates.
There are medicines and treatments provided to assist with
the swelling and discomfort if you have it.
Causes
Elephantiasis is usually contracted by being bitten by a large number of mosquitoes over a long period of time in a country where certain types of roundworms are proven to occur.
It begins when you are bitten by mosquitoes carrying roundworm
larvae. The tiny larvae grow and survive in your bloodstream. They complete
their maturation in your lymphatic system. They can live there for years,
wreaking havoc on your lymphatic system. The swelling is caused by this.
Symptoms
You may not realize you have elephantiasis until the
swelling becomes noticeable. Not only will the swollen area become bulky and
lumpy due to the stiff, tough skin, but it will also cause pain.
You may also experience chills, a fever, and a general
feeling of malaise.
Diagnosis
A physical examination by your doctor can determine if you
have elephantiasis. They'll inquire regarding your medical history and whether
you've traveled to a location where elephantiasis is more common.
They'll also run blood tests to see if you have roundworms
in your system. Because these parasites are most active at night, these tests
must be performed at that time.
Treatment
Elephantiasis can be treated with medication. Diethylcarbamazine is a medication that your doctor may prescribe for you (DEC). It's something you'll do once a year. It will kill the worms in your bloodstream that are microscopic.
Another option for treating elephantiasis is to combine DEC
with a drug called ivermectin. This is also done once a year, and the combined
effect has shown to be more effective in the long run.
There are a few things you can do on your own to help with
elephantiasis symptoms:
- Every day, wash and dry the swollen areas.
- Make use of moisturizers.
- Check for wounds and treat any sore spots with a medicated cream.
- When possible, get some exercise and go for a walk.
- Keep your arms and legs elevated when you're lying down or seated if they're swollen.
You may be able to prevent the affected areas from getting
worse by tightly wrapping them, but you should consult your doctor first.
Surgery may be required to relieve pressure in swollen areas
such as the scrotum.
Elephantiasis:
A Day-to-Day Experience
Elephantiasis is a painful condition that can make it
difficult to function. Working may be difficult because it is sometimes
difficult to move the affected body parts. Even getting around your house may
be difficult.
You may also be concerned about how others perceive your
condition. Anxiety and depression are possible outcomes. Ask your doctor about
support groups if you have elephantiasis. You can also look for resources on
the internet that may be of assistance.
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