Symptoms, remedies, and precautions for liver flukes: a comprehensive guide on this parasitic infection
Liver flukes, scientifically known as Fasciola, are parasitic worms that can live in the bile ducts and liver of humans for up to 30 years if left untreated. While these parasites are more prevalent in developing countries, there have been a few reported cases in the United States.
The disease caused by liver flukes is called fascioliasis, and it can lead to a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Hives, malaise, and fever are also common, particularly during the early stages of infection and when the bile ducts are blocked. In severe cases, an infection of the bile ducts in the liver (cholangitis) may develop, requiring surgery.
Diagnosing liver flukes can be challenging in developed countries, as they are far less common. A person needs to have mature liver flukes whose eggs have passed into the stool, and a doctor will take a stool sample to run tests that find the eggs.
Preventing a liver fluke infection involves adopting certain practices to avoid ingesting contaminated food and water. Key strategies include:
1. Proper cooking of food: Liver fluke infections often occur after eating raw or undercooked freshwater plants (such as watercress, algae) or animals (like freshwater fish, crabs, and crayfish) that harbour the parasite. Cooking these foods thoroughly kills the parasite, preventing infection.
2. Avoiding eating raw freshwater fish or plants: Since the parasites commonly infect intermediate hosts like snails and fish, avoiding consumption of these raw or undercooked is critical.
3. Control of animal hosts: Managing livestock and animal contacts, such as cattle and sheep that act as reservoirs for liver flukes, helps reduce environmental contamination of the parasite eggs.
4. Safe water practices: Avoiding drinking or contact with contaminated freshwater sources where the parasite larvae may be present reduces the risk.
5. Public education: Raising awareness about transmission routes and hygiene, including thorough washing and cooking of aquatic plants and animals, is essential for prevention.
When infection occurs, antiparasitic medications like triclabendazole are prescribed, effectively killing the liver flukes and their eggs. Other drugs, such as pain relievers, may be used to treat some of the symptoms such as pain and diarrhea associated with liver flukes.
For individuals who have travelled to at-risk regions outside of the U.S., it is a good idea to inform a doctor if they experience any symptoms that may be caused by liver flukes. By taking preventative measures and seeking prompt medical attention when necessary, the risk of liver fluke infections can be significantly reduced.
- Psoriasis, a common skin condition, is not related to liver flukes, but depression and stress often co-occur with it.
- Science continues to make strides in predictive medicine, aiming to identify early stages of medical conditions like HIV, colitis, ulcerative colitis, spondylitis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
- In the realm of health and wellness, nutrition plays a crucial role in overall fitness and exercise, providing the necessary energy and nourishment for the body.
- Medical-conditions like liver flukes, cancer, and breast cancer require regular screenings and check-ups to ensure early detection and treatment.
- AQ, a potential treatment for some parasitic infections, has shown promise in preliminary studies for its ability to disrupt the life cycle of certain parasites.
- HIV, while not related to liver flukes, is a viral infection that attacks the immune system, leading to a host of health complications and requiring lifelong medication.
- Preventive measures, including medication and a healthy lifestyle, have been shown to help manage symptoms and improve the life expectancy of people living with HIV.
- Engaging in fitness and exercise, along with a balanced diet, can contribute to a stronger immune system, making it more resilient against a range of medical conditions.
