Naegleria infection is rare and usually fatal condition caused by an amoeba commonly found in freshwater lakes, rivers and hot springs. Exposure occurs during swimming or other water sports. Amoeba called Naegleria fowleri can travel from the nose to the brain, where it can cause severe damage. Most people who have been exposed to Naegleria infection can die within a week. Millions of people exposed to Naegleria amoeba that causes infections each year. Treatment with certain drugs may be successful if given early enough to Naegleria infection.
Naegleria Infection Cause
Naegleria infection is caused by Naegleria fowleri amoeba, which is commonly found in freshwater throughout the world. This amoeba is also sometimes found in soil.
Amoeba enters the body through the nose, through contaminated water or dust, and to travel to the brain through the nerves that transmit the sense of smell.
Why do some people become infected after exposure and others do not is unknown.
This amoeba is not spread from person to person or by drinking contaminated water. Swimming pool is cleaned and disinfected properly does not contain the amoeba Naegleria.
Naegleria Infection Symptoms
Naegleria infection causes a disease called primary amebic meningoencephalitis. The disease causes inflammation of the brain and damage brain tissue.
Generally begin within 1 or 2 weeks exposed to the amoeba, Naegleria infection signs and symptoms may include:
1. Changes in the sense of smell or taste
2. Fever
3. Sudden headache
4. Stiff neck
5. Sensitivity to light
6. Nausea and vomiting
7. Confusion
8. Loss of balance
9. Drowsiness
10. Convulsions
11. Hallucinations
Signs and symptoms can develop rapidly, and usually can lead to death within 3-7 days.
Naegleria Infection Treatment
Naegleria infection most difficult to successfully treat. Only a handful of people who survive.
The main treatment for Naegleria infections is amphotericin B, usually injected into a vein (intravenously) or into the space around the spinal cord to kill the amoeba.
