Medical Review: American Trypanosomiasis (Chagas' Disease)

Many wonder when this disease is mentioned... "What is it?" Well, that is exactly what I am going to tell you today. Although many have no clue as to the dangers of this disease, how to prevent it or even how it comes to be a serious factor in today's society I am going to enlighten all of you as to the mysterious details surrounding this condition.

How Is It Caused or Contracted?

An intracellular parasite is to blame for this one. It is especially prevalent in the immigrant population as it is a common illness in Latin America. Millions of people are affected in this region.

For those living in a small confined areas such as a one family dwelling that harbors several people the risk of American Trypanosomiasis or Chagas' Disease,

is great. According to the Center for Disease Control, or the CDC, American Trypanosomiasis (Chagas' Disease) has been transmitted through a number of ways including but not limited to: kissing, improper food handling, blood transfusion, organ transplantation, congenitally (through placenta), and of course when the insects carrying the parasites in their excrement bites and then release feces onto the victim. The person bitten usually smacks, rubs or scratches the area bitten and inadvertently forces the dangerous matter into the small opening thus infecting them.

What Happens to the Victim?

Anyone infected by the American Trypanosomiasis (Chagas' Disease) experiences a painful bout. First, the acute stage includes swelling of the area as a bite from a mosquito would do, but then a fever occurs in some cases and there is a risk for both myocarditis and meningoencephalitis. The chronic stage is next and brings with it a sentence of between 1-20 years of pain and discomfort. 55%-65% of those affected will die of cardio failure.

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine available for any persons and preventative measures are common sense oriented. Such as practicing safe food handling, making sure that you keep a clean house and do not live in a poorly constructed home.

American Trypanosomiasis (Chagas' Disease): Conclusion

This is yet another point that education is key when dealing with any sickness. Prevention is important if a person is to avoid contracting this parasite. Infected persons bring this disease into the United States every day and there are no warning signs painted upon their bodies. Be cautious and vigilant as to who you are becoming personally close to and who prepares your food.