Malaria

Malaria is a blood-borne disease caused by a parasite. The parasite is transmitted to humans via the bite of an infected mosquito.

Causes

Men are considered infertile if they produce too few sperm cells, sperm cells of poor quality, or have chronic problems with ejaculation.
It is not always possible to identify the cause of problems with sperm quality, quantity, or ejaculation. Some factors that can contribute include:
  • Genetics
  • Exposure to chemicals or heavy metals
  • Tobacco use
  • Marijuana use
  • Varicose veins of the testes (varicocele)
  • Abnormal hormone levels
  • Infections
  • Physical abnormalities
  • Cancer
  • Medications
  • Obesity
  • Excessive physical activity

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Crowded or unsanitary living conditions
  • Living in or traveling to hot, humid climates where Anopheles mosquitoes are prevalent
  • Geography: Africa, Asia, and Latin America

Symptoms

A person infected with Malaria will experience some or all of the following symptoms:
  • Recurrent fevers (as high as 106 degrees F)
  • Chills
  • Diffuse muscles aches
  • Headaches
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Anemia
  • Jaundice (yellow coloring of the skin or eyes)
Symptoms usually begin within 10 days to 4 weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito. However, P. Malaria may not produce symptoms for a year or more. P. falciparum infections tend to cause more severe symptoms and are associated with higher death rates.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history and travel history. The doctor will also perform a physical exam. You will have a blood test to analyze your blood for parasites.

Treatment

Malaria is treated with prescription drugs to kill the parasites. Choice of anti-malarial agent depends on the type of parasite, and the severity and stage of infection. In many parts of the world, P. falciparum is resistant to chloroquine,the mainstay of malaria treatment.
The following medications are used alone or in combination:
  • Chloroquine
  • Mefloquine (Lariam)
  • Doxycycline
  • Clindamycin
  • Malarone
  • Quinidine
  • Quinine
  • Combination of pyrimethamine and sulfadoxine (Fansidar)
  • Primaquine (for hepatic phase of P. vivax and P. ovale)
Commonly used to treat chloroquine-resistant strains of P. falciparum.

Prevention

To reduce your chance of getting malaria when in an area where Malaria is prevalent:
  • Take anti-malaria medication prior to, during, and after travel. Follow your doctor's instructions and take medication exactly as prescribed.
  • Use DEET insect repellent (at least 30-35%) when outside.
  • Use proper mosquito netting at night.
  • Use flying insect spray in non air-conditioned rooms while sleeping.
  • Wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
  • Avoid being outdoors from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are especially prevalent.