Early Signs of Chagas You Can’t Ignore

Chagas disease is a parasitic infection caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted through the bite of infected triatomine bugs.

The disease is prevalent in Latin America, but cases are increasingly reported in the US and other regions.

Chagas disease can be acute or chronic, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

Acute symptoms include fever, fatigue, and swelling at the bite site.

Chronic Chagas disease can lead to serious cardiac and gastrointestinal complications.

The disease is often asymptomatic in its early stages, making diagnosis challenging.

Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests detecting antibodies or the parasite.

Treatment involves antiparasitic medications like benznidazole or nifurtimox.

Early treatment can cure the disease, but chronic cases require ongoing management.

Prevention involves avoiding triatomine bug bites, using insect repellents, and screening blood donations.