By Admin 
In 2024, elephantiasis disease had increased the concern of people in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. This disease caused by mosquito bites is called lymphatic filariasis or elephantiasis in medical language. In this disease, some parts of the body become so swollen that they start appearing big, thick and hard like the legs of an elephant. Apart from feet, this swelling can also occur in hands, chest and genitals. Due to which these parts of the body start looking heavy and lumpy. There may also be pain in the swollen area.
Why is it called elephant foot
In this disease, the feet are most affected. Gradually the feet swell abnormally and their skin becomes thick, rough and hard. This is the reason why it is called elephant foot in common language. Whereas elephantiasis is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. When a mosquito bites an infected person and then bites a healthy person, the parasitic worms enter the body. These insects enter the lymphatic system of the human body and block it, due to which fluid starts accumulating and swelling increases.
Symptoms are not visible in the beginning
The biggest problem of elephantiasis is that its symptoms are not clearly visible in the beginning. In many cases, no problems are seen for years after infection. But as the disease progresses, symptoms like fever, pain and swelling start appearing. Apart from this, there may be pain and discomfort in the swollen area. In some cases, repeated bacterial infections also occur, due to which the condition becomes more dangerous. Apart from this, if treatment is not received for a long time, the person’s ability to walk and work can also be affected.
How dangerous is this disease
Around 12 crore people worldwide are affected by this disease. This disease is especially prevalent in those areas where sanitary conditions are poor and mosquitoes are prevalent. Its burden is still very high in some states of India. There is currently no permanent cure or vaccine for elephantiasis, but medicines can prevent the infection from spreading further. Anti-parasitic medicines help in eliminating the worms present in the body. In some cases, surgery is also done to reduce swelling or problems like hydrocele.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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