Trichinosis, a type of roundworm infection, has a multitude of signs and symptoms. The scope and severity of trichinosis symptoms depend largely on the timing and number of parasites found in the body. Symptoms can range from diarrhea and stomach cramps to more severe symptoms, such as muscle pain, fever, and swelling of the face.
The larvae of the trichinella species of roundworm are responsible for trichinosis infections. Trichinosis occurs in humans if they eat infected meat, such as pork, without properly cooking it to a safe and appropriate cooking temperature. Proper cooking of meat, including bear and other wild animal meat, can eliminate the possibility of contracting trichinosis and dealing with the symptoms associated with the disease.
Trichinosis symptoms appear gradually over the period of two days to eight weeks after infection. Initial symptoms may begin to appear within two to seven days of infection. Infected persons may notice additional trichinosis symptoms beginning to appear anywhere from one week to eight weeks after infection.
Some individuals may notice no signs or symptoms of infection when infected by the trichinella species of roundworm. Those that happen to have a mild case of the disease tend to have few parasites in their bodies. With few parasites invading the body and the intestine, these patients may not even recognize that they suffered from trichinosis because it will resolve without the need for medical attention.
The infection will initially produce symptoms associated with the digestive system. This is due to the fact that trichinosis initially begins in the intestinal tract. Initial trichinosis symptoms include abdominal pain and discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. This will typically last until the infection progresses to the muscles and tissues of the body.
Once trichinosis spreads to the muscles, more severe symptoms may develop. This includes muscle aches and pains. Beginning approximately one to two weeks after infection, this phase also brings about fever, chills, and joint pain, and can last up to eight weeks.
Severe cases may bring about additional complications. These can include an inflammation of the heart, brain, or kidneys. While these are possible complications of the infection, they are rare.
Treatment for trichinosis depends on the phase and severity of the infection. Anti-parasitic medication can be prescribed if the infection is caught while it is still in the intestines. After that, medication is used to treat trichinosis symptoms. This can include pain relievers and corticosteroids.
