Parasites are organisms that live on or inside other organisms, known as hosts, and feed off them to survive. While some parasites are relatively harmless, others can cause serious diseases that can be life-threatening. These tiny creatures can invade our bodies and wreak havoc on our health, causing symptoms that range from mild discomfort to severe pain and even death.
Some of these parasites are so insidious that they can live inside our bodies for years without us even knowing it, slowly causing damage to our organs and systems. Here are 15 parasitic diseases that sound like they belong in a horror movie.
1. Malaria
Malaria is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and flu-like illness. If left untreated, malaria can cause severe complications such as anemia, respiratory distress, kidney failure, or cerebral malaria, which can lead to death.
2. Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. It can be contracted by eating undercooked meat or coming into contact with cat feces. While most people with toxoplasmosis do not experience any symptoms, it can cause serious complications in pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
3. Giardiasis
Giardiasis is a diarrheal illness caused by the parasite Giardia intestinalis. It is commonly contracted by drinking contaminated water or coming into contact with infected feces. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, and weight loss.
4. Cryptosporidiosis
Cryptosporidiosis is a diarrheal disease caused by the parasite Cryptosporidium. It is commonly spread through contaminated water, such as in swimming pools or lakes. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and fever.
5. Chagas Disease
Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and is transmitted through the bite of infected triatomine bugs. It can cause serious complications such as heart disease, digestive problems, and neurological issues. If left untreated, Chagas disease can be life-threatening.
6. Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted through the bite of infected sand flies. It can cause skin sores, fever, and damage to internal organs. If left untreated, leishmaniasis can be fatal
7. African Sleeping Sickness
African sleeping sickness, also known as trypanosomiasis, is a parasitic disease transmitted through the bite of infected tsetse flies. It can cause fever, headaches, and confusion. If left untreated, it can lead to neurological problems, coma, and death.
8. Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by flatworms and is contracted through contact with contaminated water. It can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and liver damage. In severe cases, it can lead to bladder cancer or kidney failure.
9. Ascariasis
Ascariasis is a parasitic infection caused by the roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides. It is contracted through ingesting contaminated food or water. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition. In severe cases, it can cause intestinal blockage or impair growth and cognitive development in children
10. Trichinosis
Trichinosis is a parasitic disease caused by roundworms and is contracted through eating undercooked meat, particularly pork. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, and muscle pain. In severe cases, it can cause heart and breathing problems.
11. Onchocerciasis
Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, is a parasitic disease caused by the worm Onchocerca volvulus and is transmitted through the bite of infected black flies. It can cause severe itching, skin rashes, and eye problems, including vision loss and blindness.
12. Echinococcosis
Echinococcosis is a parasitic disease caused by tapeworms and is contracted through contact with infected animal feces. It can cause cysts to form in the liver, lungs, and other organs, leading to severe complications if left untreated.
13. Dracunculiasis
Dracunculiasis, also known as Guinea worm disease, is a parasitic infection caused by the Guinea worm and is contracted through drinking contaminated water. The worm can grow up to three feet long and emerges from the skin, causing severe pain and disability.
14. Strongyloidiasis
Strongyloidiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the roundworm Strongyloides stercoralis and is contracted through contact with contaminated soil. It can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a rash. In people with weakened immune systems, it can cause severe complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.
15. Cysticercosis
Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the pork tapeworm and is contracted through ingesting contaminated food or water. It can cause cysts to form in the brain, leading to neurological problems such as seizures, headaches, and confusion. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
Becky is a fervent wildlife enthusiast and pet care expert with a diploma in canine nutrition. Her love for animals stretches beyond the domestic, embracing the wild tapestry of global fauna. With over a decade of experience in animal welfare, Becky lends her expertise to OutlandishOwl through insightful articles, captivating wildlife information, and invaluable guidance on pet nutrition. Her work embodies a deep commitment to understanding the intricate lives of animals and a passion for educating others on sustaining natural habitats. Becky's hands-on conservation efforts and her knack for translating complex dietary science into practical pet feeding tips make her an indispensable voice for creatures great and small.
