Schistosomiasis: Symptoms & Signs

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease. Schistosomiasis is also known as bilharzia or snail fever. The parasites are found in various tropical parts of the world.

Signs and symptoms of schistosomiasis typically do not develop until the eggs develop, about 1-2 months after the organism enters the body. At this point, some people develop

• fever,
• cough,
• chills, and
• muscle aches.

Chronic symptoms and signs follow within months to years and can include

• blood in the stool,
• diarrhea,
• painful urination,
• blood in the urine,
• chest pain,
• seizures,
• abdominal pain and swelling,
• weakness,
• paralysis, or
• mental status changes.

Cause of schistosomiasis

Parasites (genus Schistosoma) that enter the body through the skin and migrate through the circulation cause schistosomiasis. Eventually, the parasites produce eggs that develop into worms within the body. Infected freshwater snails are the source of the organism that enters the human body.

Other schistosomiasis symptoms and signs

• Abdominal Pain and Swelling
• Blood in the Stool
• Blood in the Urine
• Chest Pain
• Chills
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Mental Status Changes
• Muscle Aches
• Painful Urination
• Paralysis
• Seizures
• Weakness

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