The revelation by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., independent candidate for the presidency of the United States, that a doctor found a dead worm in his brain raised questions about what brain parasites are, the damage they can cause, and how exactly they get there.
Brain parasites encompass much more than worms. There are “legions” of organisms that can affect the brain, such as certain amoebas. The damage they cause varies depending on the type of parasite and where it ends up in the brain.
Tapeworms
Humans are typically exposed to this type of worm through raw or undercooked food or through food contaminated with feces.
The curious thing is that after contamination, the worm can circulate through the body and it can take months or even years for people to show signs of infection.
Generally, people with this type of infection experience headaches and seizures and sometimes feel confused, have difficulty concentrating, and have balance problems. The condition can be fatal.
Amoebas
Another type of parasite that can affect the brain is known as the brain-eating amoeba. Infections of this type are extremely rare but can lead to potentially fatal swelling in the brain or spinal cord. The organisms enter through the nose when people swim in lakes and rivers and then travel to the brain.
Toxoplasmosis
One of the most common parasitic brain infections is toxoplasmosis. More than 40 million people in the United States may be infected with the parasite that causes this infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People can become infected by eating undercooked meat or contaminated seafood, drinking contaminated water, or accidentally swallowing the parasite when they encounter it in cat feces while cleaning litter boxes.
The parasite that causes toxoplasmosis can remain in humans for years – potentially for a lifetime – but most people will not develop symptoms thanks to the immune system, which does an incredible job.
How do you find out if you have a parasite?
There’s no way to know unless doctors order tests like an MRI.
Treatment
Treatment options vary because infections cover a wide range. Many are treatable with antiparasitic medications, which patients may need to take for weeks. Doctors may also prescribe steroids to help treat inflammation. Some patients will undergo surgery to remove cysts.
In the United States, severe infections from brain parasites are rare, but in other parts of the world, they are more common.
Fortunately, many of these infections are preventable. To reduce the risk, especially during international travel, it is recommended to wash hands thoroughly before eating or preparing food, cook food properly, and ensure that the water you are drinking is clean.
Source: The New York Times