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The heart's hidden connection to Chagas disease: Can you prevent heart disease from developing?
Chagas disease, also known as American sleeping sickness, is a tropical parasitic disease caused by the T. cruzi parasite and primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of a "kissing bug." According to 2019 estimates, approximately 6.5 million people worldwide are infected with Chagas disease, resulting in approximately 9,490 deaths each year. The disease often starts with mild or no symptoms at all, but over time, long-term infection can lead to serious complications such as heart disease.
"The chronic phase of Chagas disease can lead to heart dysfunction decades later, during which time most infected people are unaware of it."
The development of Chagas disease can be divided into two stages: acute and chronic. In the acute stage, patients may experience non-specific symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes. If this stage is not treated promptly, it will enter the chronic stage after 4 to 8 weeks. In the chronic stage, approximately 30% to 40% of patients may experience dysfunction of the heart or digestive system, and the risk of heart disease is even more significant.
How is Chagas disease transmitted?"It is estimated that between 14% and 45% of people with chronic Chagas disease will eventually develop heart disease."
Chagas disease is spread primarily by kissing bugs, which bite humans and deposit infected feces into the wound, where it enters the bloodstream. In addition, Chagas disease can be transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or when pregnant women pass the pathogen to their babies.
Symptoms of heart disease
The chronic stage of Chagas disease sees the development of heart disease, with patients often experiencing palpitations and sometimes even fainting, often due to abnormal heart function. As the disease progresses, the heart's chambers may enlarge, making it impossible for the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to heart failure.
"Heart disease caused by Chagas disease may be irreversible most of the time."
Diagnosis and treatment
Chagas disease can be diagnosed by visual examination of the blood for antibodies to T. cruzi or by other detection techniques. The drugs currently available for treatment mainly include benidazolid and nifedipine, but these drugs are less effective in the chronic stage.
Precautions
To prevent Chagas disease, prevention efforts focus on getting rid of kissing bugs and avoiding bites. This can include the use of insecticides and mosquito nets and improved hygiene measures in living environments. At the same time, safety screening for blood transfusion and organ transplantation is also an important preventive measure.
Summary"While the risk of Chagas disease exists, detection and early treatment can effectively slow or prevent the progression of heart disease."
The hidden link to Chagas disease reminds us that early detection and timely intervention are key, and that at least one viable option is within reach when it comes to preventing heart disease and Chagas disease. As we learn more about the disease and its effects, can we use that knowledge to reduce our risk of developing it?
