A SERIOUS MOSQUITO-BORNE PARASITIC INFECTION
Malaria
A parasitic infection spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes, causing high fever, chills, sweats and body pain. Prompt diagnosis and species-specific antimalarial therapy are essential.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Malaria
Malaria is a serious parasitic infection caused by Plasmodium species, transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. The disease causes recurrent cycles of high fever with chills, profuse sweating, headache, body pain, nausea and tiredness. Different species of malaria can cause varying degrees of severity, with falciparum malaria being the most dangerous and capable of affecting the brain, kidneys and lungs. Malaria remains a significant health concern in India, particularly during the monsoon season. Early diagnosis with a blood test and prompt species-specific antimalarial therapy lead to complete recovery in most cases. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides accurate diagnosis and comprehensive malaria care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Bite from an Anopheles mosquito infected with malaria parasites
- Living in or travelling to malaria-endemic areas
- Monsoon and post-monsoon season with high mosquito activity
- Stagnant water around homes supporting mosquito breeding
- Inadequate use of mosquito nets, repellents and protective clothing
- Blood transfusion or shared needles (rare modes)
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Blood smear test, rapid diagnostic tests and PCR in selected cases
Plasmodium vivax · P. falciparum · P. ovale · P. malariae
Antimalarial therapy chosen based on species and severity
Falciparum malaria requires urgent hospital care
Mosquito nets, repellents and prophylaxis in endemic areas
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Species-Specific Antimalarial Therapy
The most effective approach is rapid blood-test confirmation followed by antimalarial therapy chosen specifically for the species and severity. Severe falciparum malaria is treated urgently in hospital with intravenous therapy and full monitoring.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews the fever pattern and travel or exposure history, examines the patient and orders blood smear and rapid diagnostic tests.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Treatment plan based on the malaria species identified, severity, organ involvement and patient profile.
- 3
Medical Management
Antimalarial therapy specific to the species, hydration, fever control and treatment of complications; hospital admission for severe cases.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up to confirm clearance of parasites, monitor for relapse in certain species and counsel on mosquito prevention.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Antimalarial Therapy
Targeted antimalarial medication chosen according to the malaria species and severity of infection.
Regimen Based on Species and Severity
Different species respond to different regimens. Treatment is planned individually after parasite identification.
Supportive Care and Hydration
Fever control, fluids and rest support recovery during the acute illness.
Treatment of Complications
Severe malaria with brain, kidney or lung involvement is treated urgently in hospital with intravenous therapy and intensive care.
Mosquito-Bite Prevention Counselling
Practical guidance on mosquito nets, repellents, protective clothing and eliminating breeding sites at home.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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