Question

What causes swelling of the lower limbs in patients suffering from filariasis?

Answer 1

Filariasis is an illness caused by roundworms that belong to the family Filarioidea. It is a transmissible disease that is transmitted via certain worms. It is a disease that affects the physical appearance of an individual.

Complete step by step answer: Filariasis is otherwise called elephantiasis. It is caused by parasitic worms and can spread from one person to another through mosquitoes. The parasitic worms make an entry into the body and affect the lymphatic system of the body. The lymphatic system is supposed to remove wastes and toxins from the body, but due to parasitic worms, wastes and toxins start to accumulate in the body which results in swelling. Filariasis is brought about by three kinds of parasitic worms, they are:
a. Wuchereria Bancrofti
b. Brutus timori
c. Brugia malayi
The swelling occurs in legs, genitals, breasts and arms. The legs are the most commonly affected area. The swelling and enlargement of body parts can lead to pain and mobility issues. People with this condition are also at increased risk for a secondary infection. Its treatment includes antiparasitic drugs, exercise and surgery.

Note: Filariasis can affect a person at any age. It is common in both men and women. It is more prevalent in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world such as Africa, India, South America and Southeast Asia. The diagnosis of the disease is usually done through X-rays and ultrasounds.