7 Symptoms of Toxocariasis

Toxocariasis is a human infection which is caused by ingestion of the roundworm parasites typically found in cats, dogs, and foxes. This disease is much more common among children, who are at higher risk of touching grass or soil which has been contaminated with parasites due to exposure to feces from infected animals. Children may play in such areas and then put their hands in their mouth, hence contracting the parasite. Adults and teens can also contract this infection, however it is less common and cannot be passed or spread from person to person.In most instances, Toxocariasis causing parasites will die within several months of ingestion and cause no major symptoms. However, in more extreme cases there can be several, quite severe symptoms, which must be treated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Your physician can perform a simple blood test to confirm a Toxocariasis diagnosis, which can be treated with a course of medication called an anthelminthic, which kills the infection causing larvae. If you suspect that either yourself or a family member to be suffering from this infection, you should contact your doctor immediately. The most commonly seen symptoms of this infection are detailed below.

1. Fatigue

The initial symptom to be aware of is that of fatigue. Fatigue is often categorized by tiredness, reduced energy, physical or mental exhaustion, or persistent lack of motivation, but is usually a markedly different feeling than the general drowsiness that typically comes before falling asleep or the psychological feeling of apathy. If you or your child is experiencing general weakness and lingering fatigue, this can be a potential warning sign of this infection. In children, who are typically much more more active and energetic, this distinction may be much more readily seen than in older adults or even teens.Any ongoing display of extreme lethargy, exhaustion, or general continued lack of energy is certainly cause for concern and could signal a Toxocariasis infection is at work. Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of any infection, as your body begins to work overtime to rid itself of these invading parasites and return your body back to its proper functioning state. Otherwise unexplained fatigue, exhaustion or overall feelings of weakness are one of the leading symptoms of this infection, so you'll want to inform your doctor if you notice this symptom occurring.Next