Falciparum Malaria Symptoms

Falciparum malaria, or more accurately P. falciparum malaria, is one of four types of malaria and is considered the most serious. In fact, malaria caused by P. falciparum infections is often simply called severe malaria. As with all types of the disease, mosquitoes transmit P. falciparum malaria. In many parts of the world, malaria is no longer a concern, but in tropical and subtropical climates the condition remains prevalent. Cases of malaria in geographic locations that have virtually eradicated the disease typically occur in people who have traveled recently to other parts of the world. Without rapid treatment, P. falciparum malaria can cause life-threatening complications. Of those receiving treatment, about 15 to 20 percent will die. For nearly all people who do not receive proper treatment, the infection is fatal. As with other types of malaria, medical professionals diagnose a P. falciparum infection through observation of blood smears under a microscope.

Flu-like Symptoms

• Many people with P. falciparum malaria exhibit symptoms very similar to those commonly associated with the flu. Those suffering from any type of malaria infection commonly experience a fever, chills, headaches and a cough.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Many people infected with P. falciparum malaria experience bouts of nausea and vomiting as a sign of the condition. Diarrhea is also a common symptom of malaria. Gastrointestinal symptoms are hallmarks of all four kinds of malaria infections, including P. falciparum.

Jaundice

• Malaria destroys liver cells and red blood cells, resulting in jaundice, a slight yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Jaundice is most common in P. falciparum malaria infections.

Neurological Symptoms

• Unlike other types of malaria, P. falciparum malaria often affects the central nervous system. Seizures, loss of consciousness and coma are some of the neurological symptoms of a P. falciparum infection.

Anemia

• Severe anemia is a symptom unique to malaria cases caused by P. falciparum infections. Anemia develops because of the destruction of red blood cells. Other blood-related problems resulting from P. falciparum malaria infections include abnormal coagulation and fewer blood platelets.