Leptospirosis is a blood infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria. It spreads from animals to humans. The bacteria usually get into the human body through contact with animal urine. The leptospirosis symptoms appear after an incubation period of 5-14 days.
What are Leptospirosis Symptoms?
Leptospirosis has two phases; depending on the stage, symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Initial Phase (Acute Phase)
This phase lasts about 3–7 days, and the symptoms often resemble the flu.
- High Fever & Chills: A sudden spike in body temperature (often above 102°F or 39°C), accompanied by severe chills and sweating.
- Severe Headache: Excruciating, throbbing headaches like migraines, frequently localised over the temples or forehead.
- Muscle Pain & Stiffness: Widespread muscle ache, especially in the calves, thighs, and lower back, which resists movement.
- Nausea, Vomiting & Loss of Appetite: Nausea, at times causing vomiting and decreased appetite.
- Abdominal Pain & Diarrhoea: Pain or cramps in the abdomen, sometimes paired with loose bowels.
- Eye Irritation (Conjunctival Redness): Bloodshot and red eyes caused by inflammation can be confused with conjunctivitis (pink eye).
- Skin Rash: Some may have red, patchy rashes, often on the chest and back.
- Fatigue & Weakness: Generalised weakness, fatigue, and lack of energy to accomplish daily tasks.
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes become swollen, particularly in the armpits and neck, as the body attempts to combat the infection.
- Sore Throat: Some individuals may experience throat pain or hoarseness.
Second Phase (Immune Phase)
Leptospirosis, if left untreated, gets worse, spreading to other organs. This can be life-threatening and takes weeks.
- Jaundice: A sign of infection spreading to the liver, causing yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, along with dark urine.
- Kidney Dysfunction & Swelling: Decreased urine output, water build-up, and swelling in legs, ankles, and face.
- Meningitis (Brain Inflammation): Severe headache, stiff neck, nausea, and sensitivity to light caused by inflammation of the protective membrane of the brain.
- Respiratory Distress & Lung Damage: Shortness of breath, coughing persistently, and, in extreme cases, coughing up blood because of involvement of the lungs.
- Internal Bleeding: Spontaneous nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or the presence of blood in urine, stool, or vomit.
- Low Blood Pressure & Shock: A sudden decrease in blood pressure may lead to dizziness, confusion, and fainting.
- Heart Complications: Leptospirosis infection can affect the heart, causing abnormal heartbeat, chest pain, or inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis).
Conclusion
Leptospirosis is a potentially serious bacterial infection that can cause mild flu-like symptoms to life-threatening damages to the liver, kidneys, and brain. Early detection and immediate treatment with antibiotics are important for combating the disease. As the infection may result in hospitalisation and expensive medical treatment, having proper health insurance plans can offer financial assistance and guarantee access to appropriate treatments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.