The simplest parasites: types, how they are dangerous, prevention

It is necessary to start with the fact that the simplest organisms appeared a long time ago, they are considered the oldest inhabitants of the planet. During the entire period of their existence, they have become incredibly resistant to various tests. They can survive even in the most dangerous environment.

These microorganisms have chosen a very convenient way of existence for themselves - parasitism, especially in the human body. As mentioned above, these microorganisms are incredibly "harmful" and persistent, so it is sometimes so difficult to get rid of them.

There are several types of parasitic "residence". The first type includes endogenous microorganisms, that is, those that are found inside the human body. The second type includes exogenous parasites that readily "settle" on the skin and cause various skin diseases.

Types of protozoan parasites

Basically, there are 4 types of parasites that "live well" in the human body.

Flagellate

These include lamblia, trypanosomes. This class is a representative of the oldest representatives of parasites. They got this name thanks to their organ of movement - flagella. The size of the parasites themselves is simply microscopic, they have a constant shape and reproduce, as a rule, dividing into two parts.

the simplest parasites of lamblia in the human body

They are very dangerous for humans and animals, if they enter their body, they cause enormous damage. They also cause various diseases. Like American carotid fever, cutaneous leishmaniasis, and many others. They can parasitize in the intestines, blood and skin. Hence, negatively affecting human health.

Sporozoa

This type of protozoan parasite has a very complex development path. The class is currently known to contain around 1400 species. All representatives "choose" a parasitic lifestyle and are extremely dangerous for humans and animals. Reproduction occurs by cell division.

protozoan parasites

Most often, the tissues and organs of a person or animal are chosen as the "place of residence". This species causes many diseases. For example, like malaria, toxoplasmosis.

Ciliates

These include balantidia. There are about 7000 different species. The organs of movement of these parasites are cilia, of which there are many.

protozoan parasites of balantidia

A feature of this type is the presence of two nuclei. They have a constant body shape and shell. Reproduction is usually done by division. This species is no less dangerous to humans and animals than the previous two.

Sarcode

These include the amoeba of dysentery. They are the most primitive of all types and classes. There are about 10, 000 different species! They don't have a permanent body shape. Parasite in humans and animals.

parasitic protozoan dysentery amoeba

Most often, they choose the digestive system for their activities. Due to them, a person can experience very severe poisoning. In some cases, deaths are also common.

These types combine high resistance to various "tests". After all, an infected person is constantly trying to fight parasites, but it does not always work due to how much they can withstand all measures.

Why are they dangerous, what diseases do they cause

The simplest parasites are in fact very dangerous for human health. They can cause various diseases that have certain consequences. In no case should you underestimate the simplest parasites, because they can significantly harm a person.

Diseases caused by protozoan parasites:

Malaria

For such a disease, some differences are characteristic. Sometimes there is relief, so the relief is replaced by a worsening of symptoms. The main symptoms are headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, convulsions.

the mosquito is a carrier of protozoan parasites and malaria

For many years, chitin was considered the best treatment. However, there are also deaths from this disease most of the time where the medicine is developed at a low level.

Amoebiasis

Another no less dangerous disease, the consequences of which can also be sad. The causative agent is the amoeba of dysentery.

Symptoms begin to appear 7-10 days after infection. These include headaches, general malaise, fever, and some people may have stomach upset. This is followed by complications, which are expressed in liver problems. If the patient does not start treatment on time and does not go to a specialist, the consequences will be irreversible.

Toxoplasmosis

The causative agent of the disease is Toxoplasma of Gondia. Symptoms of this disease include eye damage, the nervous system suffers and the cardiovascular system. Most often, at first, the infection is insignificant, as if a common cold passes.

parasitic protozoan toxoplasma gondii the causative agent of toxoplasmosis

Infection during pregnancy is very dangerous. Even if the baby survives, he is very likely to have complications and damage to the eyes or nervous system. Therefore, even with the first symptoms, it is imperative to consult a doctor.

Balantidosis

It is caused by a microorganism such as balantidia. Symptoms of this disease are abdominal pain, indigestion. In some cases, a high temperature, intoxication of the body is also possible.

Leishmaniasis

Leishmania is considered the causative agent of this disease. With skin and mucocutaneous manifestations, ulcers appear. With mucocutaneous manifestation, edema can often occur. Since these diseases are associated with the respiratory tract, there may be deaths.

Leishmaniasis is found mainly in hot countries. This disease is quite common and occurs in 87 countries.

As you can see, the simplest parasites are incredibly dangerous to human health, despite the simple structure of microorganisms. They can cause irreparable harm to the human body, as well as entail some consequences and complications.

How they are transmitted

There are 4 most common ways of infection:

  1. Contact - family. . . This type manifests itself due to violation of sanitary measures or hygiene rules. Infection can result from various activities: the use of other people's things, especially personal hygiene products, dishes and the like. Therefore, it is very important to follow the rules of personal hygiene, have your own personal care products and in no case use someone else's.
  2. Fecal - oral. . . This type occurs as a result of contact with stool or vomit. The simplest parasite first enters the hands or food of the "new host" and then into her body.
  3. From food. . . This type manifests itself as a result of consuming contaminated foods. This can be poorly cooked fish or meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, dairy products.
  4. Transmissible. . . This type occurs as a result of transmission from an infected object during a bite, that is, through the secretion of saliva.

How to get rid of them

After reading the article, this question surely arises. Simpler parasite infections are very common, so the question of getting rid of them is incredibly relevant.

As mentioned above, when the first symptoms of infection appear, you should see a doctor. The specialist can prescribe certain tests and examinations. After passing them, the doctor will make an accurate diagnosis. After that, it is urgent to proceed with the treatment. Furthermore, self-medication is not recommended, because it is a professional who can help make the correct diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment. In most cases, doctors resort to treatment with various drugs that help eliminate parasites and accelerate human recovery.

In modern times, there are many different good drugs that help with parasitic protozoan infections. There is a huge variety of drugs on the market, which allows you to find the right one for a particular patient.

Preventive measures

In order not to deal with the above problems, it is imperative to adhere to certain rules, as well as take preventive measures.

The most effective rules are those taught by children in school. First of all, you should not forget about the thorough washing of fruits and vegetables. You can also perform a heat treatment or cut the leather.

Also, you can not eat raw fish, not fully cooked meat. It is imperative to fully prepare the dish, observe the temperature regime and time, in order to fully cook the product. Casual sex should be avoided. And you also need to undergo regular medical examinations.