Select Language

6 symptoms of leptospirosis you should watch out for

Leptospirosis is a common monsoon disease. Watch out for these symptoms to avoid potentially fatal consequences.

Written by Anuradha Varanasi | Updated : June 29, 2016 6:11 PM IST

1/7

6 Symptoms Of Leptospirosis You Should Be Aware About This Monsoon

Leptospirosis is a water-borne disease that spreads via direct contact with infected excreta or urine of rats. It is caused by the leptospira bacteria and spreads during monsoon season when people are forced to wade through flooded roads. 'Wearing gum boots or shoes that protect your feet and lower legs from coming in contact with contaminated water can help in preventing leptospirosis,' says Dr Pradip Shah, Physician at Mumbai's Fortis hospital. The bacteria enters your body through cuts or abrasions on your skin. These are the six symptoms that can start surfacing around two weeks after you come in direct contact with the leptospira bacteria.

3/7

Headaches

If the leptospira bacteria has managed to enter your body, you will also experience severe headaches and chills that don't subside on their own. 'Leptospirosis is a treatable disease and it is important to seek treatment in the early stages to avoid kidney or liver failure,' says Dr Shah. In a severe stage, it is known as Weil's disease.

5/7

Jaundice

Patients become prone to jaundice and their eyes and skin develop a yellow tinge. After a while, the patient might also have bloodshot eyes.

7/7

Vomiting And Diarrhea

Vomiting and loose motions or diarrhea are other common symptoms. If treated on time, patients recover within a few days to three weeks. If there is a delay in medical treatment, you might take several months to recover due to meningitis. If the patient's lungs are affected, it could prove to be fatal.