What is a malaria test?
Malaria test is a test that helps in detecting parasites causing malaria. Malaria is a dangerous parasitic illness. Parasites are microscopic plants or animals that obtain nourishment by feeding on another organism. Plasmodium is a parasite that causes malaria. Malaria-causing parasites are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitos. Malaria symptoms may first resemble those of the flu. Malaria can later cause life-threatening complications. One mosquito bite is all it takes to contract the disease.
Malaria is not contagious like the common cold or flu, but mosquitos may carry it from person to person. When an infected mosquito bites an individual it releases the parasites into the bloodstream.The Malaria tests examines the blood for symptoms of malaria infection.
Other names: Malaria blood smear, malaria quick diagnostic test, and malaria by PCR are some of the other names for this test.
What are the uses of malaria test?
Malaria tests are used to determine the presence of malaria disease. Malaria can be cured if it is diagnosed and treated early. Malaria, if left untreated, can cause life-threatening consequences such as renal failure, liver failure, and internal bleeding.
What are the uses of malaria test?
If you reside in or have recently gone to a malaria-endemic area and have malaria symptoms, you may require this test. The majority of patients will get symptoms within 10 or 14 days of being bitten by an infected insect. However, symptoms might occur as quickly as seven days after the infection or as late as a year afterward. Malaria symptoms are similar to the flu in the early stages of illness and may include:
Symptoms in the latter stages of infection are more severe and may include:
- High fever
- Shivering and chills
- Convulsions
- Bloody stools
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Seizures
- Mental confusion
What happens during a malaria test?
During a malaria test, the doctor will most likely inquire about your symptoms as well as about your recent trips. If an infection is suspected, your blood will be tested for malaria antibodies.
A blood test involves drawing a small amount of blood from a hand or vein in the arm using a tiny needle by a healthcare provider. Following the insertion of the needle, a little quantity of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. When the needle goes in or out, you may feel a slight sting. This test normally takes five minutes.
Your blood sample may be examined in one or both of the ways listed below.
- Smear test for blood: A drop of blood is placed on a specially prepared slide in a blood smear. A laboratory technician will check the slide under a microscope for parasites.
- Rapid diagnostic examination: This test searches for antigens, which are proteins secreted by malaria parasites. It produces results faster than a blood smear, although a blood smear is generally required to confirm a diagnosis.
How to prepare for the malaria test?
There are no additional preparations required for a malaria test.
Is there any risk associated with the malaria test?
There are no major risks associated with malaria tests. Having a blood test may cause you some discomfort or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will go away soon.
What does the results imply?
If your findings are negative but you still have malaria symptoms, you should be tested again. The amount of malarial parasites might fluctuate. As a result, your healthcare provider may prescribe blood smears every 12-24 hours for two to three days. It is critical to determine whether you have malaria so that you can be treated as soon as possible. If your findings are positive, your doctor will prescribe medications to treat the illness. The sort of medication you receive will be determined by your age, the severity of your malaria symptoms, and if you are pregnant. Most instances of malaria can be cured if treated early.
Important information to understand about malaria tests?
If you plan to go to regions where malaria is common, consult your healthcare practitioner first. He or she may prescribe a malaria-prevention medication.
There are various precautions you may take to avoid mosquito bites. This may minimize your chances of contracting malaria and other mosquito-borne ailments. To avoid bites, you should:
- Apply a DEET-containing insect repellent to your skin and clothing.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers.
- Close the window and use door screens.
- Sleep under a mosquito net over.
