A representative from Hai Duong Tropical Diseases Hospital reported on 2/7 that a patient was admitted with persistent fatigue, appetite loss, and insomnia. The patient, a 65-year-old woman, had previously experienced skin rashes and scattered itching. Suspecting a parasitic infection, she bought 80 Albedazol 200mg pills to treat herself. When her condition did not improve, she stopped the pills for 20 days before seeking medical help.

Hospital lab results confirmed the patient was positive for five types of parasites: schistosomes, large liver flukes, canine tapeworms, canine and feline roundworms, and Trichinella. While doctors managed to alleviate her itching, her earlier high-dose self-medication had caused significant health damage. This led to severe exhaustion and a surge in her liver enzyme levels.

Doctor Tran Phuong Nam, deputy head of general internal medicine, emphasized that parasitic infections are complex, with each type requiring a specific treatment protocol. He noted that many mistakenly buy deworming medication or use high-dose, long-term traditional remedies. Such actions are not only ineffective but directly harm the liver and kidneys, leading to complications and higher treatment expenses.

Doctor Nam added that itchy skin can stem from various causes, including dermatitis, fungal infections, allergies, or liver and kidney conditions. He warned against self-diagnosing or using medication without a medical professional's guidance.

To safeguard health, the doctor advises anyone experiencing persistent itchy skin or fatigue to seek timely medical examination and testing. Additionally, individuals should practice safe food hygiene by eating cooked food and drinking boiled water, avoiding raw dishes like blood pudding, raw fish salad, and rare meat. Regular deworming, once every six months to one year, is also recommended to prevent re-infection.

Thuy Quynh