Leprosy
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What isleprosy?
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by bacterial infection that affects the skin, eyes, nervous system,respiratory system, and the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Leprosy is transmitted through droplets fromthe nose and mouth. Leprosy is treatable, but if not treated early, it leads to permanent complications.
What are the symptoms of leprosy infection?
Leprosy affects the skin, eyes, nerves, as well as the respiratory system and mucous membranes in the nose and throat.
- Visible symptoms on the skin include:
- Flat discolored patches on the skin, often lighter than the surrounding skin.
- Skin lesions or nodules.
- Areas with thickened or dry skin.
- Painless ulcers beneath the skin.
- Painless swelling or lumps on the face or earlobes.
Loss of eyebrows and eyelashes.
- Symptoms related to the respiratory system and mucous membranes of the nose and throat:
- Nasal congestion.
Nosebleeds.
- Symptoms resulting from nervous system involvement:
- Numbness in affected skin areas.
- Muscle weakness, especially in the feet and hands.
- Enlargement of nerves, particularly around the neck, elbows, and knees.
Eyeproblems.
What are thecauses of leprosy?
A person contracts leprosy through bacterial infection, and these bacteria are transmitted from an infected person via droplets such as coughs and sneezes.
What are the diagnostic methods?
- The doctor takes the patient’s medical history and conducts a clinical examination. The doctor may perform or request additional procedures such as:
– Biopsy fromthe affected skinor nerves.
What are the treatment options for leprosy?
Leprosy is treated with antibiotics, and the doctor prescribes multiple antibiotics at the same time toprevent bacterial resistance to antibiotics. The treatment duration is long and may last for a yearor more; thus, regular follow-up with the healthcare provider and consistent medication adherence are crucial.
What are the ways to prevent leprosy?
The likelihood of contracting leprosy is low, but avoidingdirect exposure to bodily fluids, such as dropletsfrom people infected with leprosy, can prevent infection.
What are the complications of leprosy infection?
- In advanced stages of the disease, it can cause:.
- Blindness.
- Paralysis.
- Deformities of the nose and fingers.
Chronic ulcers.
When should you see a doctor?
If any of the symptoms mentioned above appear, you should visit a doctor to determine whether it is leprosy or another health issue.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is leprosy a common disease?
Leprosy is mainly prevalent in tropical countries, but its spread in those regions is limited. It is almost absent in non-tropical countries, such as the Gulf countries.
Is it possible for leprosy to lead to amputation?
