What consequences can an untreated malaria infection have?
December 19, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Paula Voigt
Dear doctor,
My name is Ben Weiss and I am reaching out to you because I recently returned from a tropical country and am experiencing some health issues. During my stay, I had fever, chills, and severe headaches, which I initially attributed to the unfamiliar environment. However, I have now read online that these could also be symptoms of a malaria infection.
I am now very worried as I have not received any medical treatment so far and am not sure if I could actually be suffering from malaria. What could the consequences of an untreated malaria infection be? I have heard that this could lead to serious complications, such as organ failure or even death. Is this true and what is the risk if the infection is not treated in time?
Furthermore, I wonder if it is still possible to treat a malaria infection if the symptoms have already appeared and some time has passed since I returned from the affected area. Are there medications that are effective even in advanced stages or is it already too late for a successful treatment?
I kindly ask for your urgent help and information on this matter, as I am concerned and unsure about how to proceed. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Ben Weiss
Dear Ben Weiß,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a tropical medicine specialist. It is understandable that you are concerned, especially if you have noticed symptoms such as fever, chills, and headaches after your stay in a tropical country. These symptoms could indeed indicate a malaria infection, as it is one of the most common infectious diseases in tropical regions.
An untreated malaria infection can indeed lead to serious complications. Symptoms such as jaundice, anemia, kidney failure, seizures, and even unconsciousness or coma can occur. In severe cases, a malaria infection can even lead to death, especially if caused by the dangerous Plasmodium falciparum parasite. Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat a malaria infection as soon as possible.
While it is ideal to treat malaria as early as possible, there are still treatment options available even if symptoms have already appeared and some time has passed since your return from the affected area. There are various medications for the treatment of malaria, including artemisinin combination therapies, chloroquine, mefloquine, and doxycycline. The choice of medication depends on various factors, such as the type of parasite and the severity of the infection.
It is important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible to receive an accurate diagnosis and start the appropriate treatment. The doctor will likely perform a blood test to determine the presence of a malaria parasite. The earlier treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery and the lower the risk of complications.
Overall, it is possible to treat a malaria infection even in advanced stages, as long as it is detected in time and the appropriate medications are administered. Therefore, do not hesitate to see a doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
I hope this information helps you and I am happy to answer any further questions you may have.
Best regards,
Paula Voigt
