answersLogoWhite

0

African Sleeping Sickness

African sleeping sickness is a parasitic disease of people and animals, resulting in swelling of the brain caused by protozoa of Trypanosoma brucei and transmissible by the tsetse fly. It is an endemic disease of sub-Sahara African regions, covering 60 million people in 36 countries.

67 Questions

What animal cause African sleeping sickness?

African sleeping sickness is primarily caused by the Trypanosoma brucei parasite, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected tsetse flies. There are two main forms of the disease: Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, which is prevalent in West and Central Africa, and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, found in East Africa. The disease can lead to severe neurological symptoms if not treated promptly.

Where did the African sleeping sickness first start?

African sleeping sickness, caused by the Trypanosoma brucei parasite and transmitted by tsetse flies, is believed to have originated in sub-Saharan Africa. Historical records indicate that the disease has been present in the region for centuries, with early mentions dating back to the 19th century. It primarily affects rural populations in areas where tsetse flies are prevalent. The disease's impact has been significant in regions such as Central and East Africa, where it continues to pose public health challenges.

How did African sleeping sickness receive its name?

African sleeping sickness, also known as trypanosomiasis, received its name due to the severe neurological symptoms it causes, including disruptions in sleep patterns. The disease is caused by the Trypanosoma parasite, transmitted by the tsetse fly. Infected individuals may experience bouts of sleepiness during the day and insomnia at night, leading to the term "sleeping sickness." The disease is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, where the tsetse fly is found.

What are the community risks of sleeping sickness have?

Sleeping sickness, caused by the Trypanosoma parasite transmitted by the tsetse fly, poses significant community risks, including severe health impacts and economic consequences. In affected areas, the disease can lead to high morbidity and mortality rates, which strain healthcare systems and reduce workforce productivity. Additionally, it can disrupt agricultural activities, as infected individuals may be unable to work, further exacerbating poverty and food insecurity in communities. The stigma associated with the disease can also hinder access to treatment and support, perpetuating cycles of vulnerability.

What is the pocket of swelling by your ankle?

The pocket of swelling by your ankle is often referred to as edema, which can occur due to various causes such as injury, inflammation, or fluid retention. Common conditions associated with ankle swelling include sprains, arthritis, or venous insufficiency. If the swelling is persistent or accompanied by pain, redness, or warmth, it may be important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Is sleeping sickness a virus bacteria or a protists?

Sleeping sickness, also known as African trypanosomiasis, is caused by a protist. Specifically, it is caused by the Trypanosoma brucei parasite, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tsetse fly. There are two forms of the disease, depending on the subspecies of the parasite. The condition can lead to severe neurological symptoms if not treated promptly.

Is African sleeping sickness a bacteria or virus?

African sleeping sickness is caused by a protozoan parasite called Trypanosoma brucei, not a bacteria or a virus.

What is it called if when you fall asleep anywhere for no reason?

Narcolepsy is the disorder where you fall asleep anywhere at anytime.

What protozoan is responsible for African sleeping sickness?

The common name is African Trypanosomaisis. It is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma brucei.

What large complex single celled organism causes African sleeping sickness?

Sleeping sickness is also known as trypanosomiasis or African sleeping sickness. It's caused by a protozoan that leads to a serious infection in the brain and the meninges (the covering of the brain and spinal cord).
Both species of Trypanosoma are transmitted from human to human through the bite of the tsetse fly (Glossina) which is only found in rural parts of Africa.
However, trypanosomes can also be transmitted from mother to child as the parasite can cross the placenta in the blood and infect the baby while it is still in the womb.
Contaminated needles can also contribute to the spread of trypanosomes, but this is rare.
Communities most at risk of trypanosomiasis live in rural areas where the tsetse fly is found. These communities often depend primarily on agriculture, fishing and hunting to survive and have limited access to health services and education. As a result, many cases of trypanosomiasis go undiagnosed.

The trypanosome parasite is first introduced into the mammalian host when a tsetse fly takes a blood meal and secretes parasite-filled saliva into the host’s skin. The neurological phase begins when the trypanosome parasites cross from the blood-brain barrier into the spinal fluid, infecting the central nervous system including the brain. Once the brain is affected it results in
changes in behavior, confusion, poor coordination, difficulties with speech and disturbance of sleep (sleeping through the day and insomnia at night), hence the term ‘sleeping sickness’.
Trypanosomiasis is curable if treatment is given quickly, however if left untreated the disease is fatal.

How is sleeping sickness prevented?

Prevention of sleeping sickness requires avoiding contact with the tsetse fly. Insect repellents and clothing that covers the limbs. Public health measures have included drug treatment of humans who are infected. There are currently no immunizations

Does fungi causes malaria African sleeping sickness and amoebic dysentery?

No. Malaria is an animal disease that affects humans and is caused by a protozoan parasite, therefore in the biological kingdom, Protista, and not Fungi. It is spread by certain types of mosquito.

What happens physically to someone when they get African sleeping sickness?

African Sleeping Sickness is most primarily transmitted through a insect in Africa that bites you and infects you. However, African Sleeping Sickness can also be a Sexually Transmitted Disease.

What is a risk factor for developing diabetes?

Diabetes Risk factors
  • Relatives with the condition
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Being overweight
  • Delivering babies larger than 9lb
  • Gestational diabetes
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Diet high in sugars and high GI carbohydrates

Shock, trauma, or grief can bring on diabetes too. My father-in-law was diagnosed shortly after his wife of 53yrs passed away. I have also had a friend diagnosed with this disease shortly after shock and trauma in her life.
Risk factors of diabetes include genetics and family history, pancreas diseases, infections in the body, illness, and obesity.

Is African sleeping sickness contagious?

Yes, sleeping sickness is treatable, but the patient needs to be followed up for relapses, as treatment is not always successful. Some of the damage to the brain (which occurs in the later stages) can't be reversed.

Pentamidine or suramin are usually used. Melarsoprol (toxic) and eflornithine (not easily available) can be used as well.

Organ affected by African sleeping sickness?

The Tsetse Fly causes a lot of the cases, probably around 50,000 people have it in Ethiopia alone, maybe more.

How do you stop ankle swelling?

You can wrap your ankle tightly every night or any chance you get , that should help