What are the symptoms of Ebola virus disease?
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Symptoms of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD)
Early Symptoms: Fever, Fatigue, and Muscle Pain
Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) often begins with non-specific symptoms that can be mistaken for other illnesses. Early signs include fever, fatigue, and muscle pain. Fever is one of the most common initial symptoms, reported in up to 84% of patients . Fatigue is also prevalent, affecting around 65% to 80% of patients . Muscle pain, or myalgia, is another early symptom frequently observed in EVD cases .
Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Abdominal Pain
As the disease progresses, gastrointestinal symptoms become prominent. Vomiting and diarrhea are particularly common, with diarrhea affecting up to 62% of patients . These symptoms contribute to severe dehydration, which is a critical concern in EVD management. Abdominal pain and nausea are also frequently reported, adding to the gastrointestinal distress experienced by patients.
Hemorrhagic Symptoms: Bleeding and Conjunctivitis
One of the most alarming aspects of EVD is its hemorrhagic manifestations. Patients may experience bleeding from various body openings, including the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to severe complications . Conjunctivitis, or inflammation of the eye, is another symptom that appears later in the disease and is strongly associated with EVD .
Neurological and Systemic Symptoms: Confusion and Multi-Organ Dysfunction
Neurological symptoms such as confusion are also observed, particularly in the later stages of the disease. Confusion is more than three times as likely to predict a diagnosis of Ebola. Systemic symptoms include multi-organ dysfunction, which can lead to fulminant shock and eventually death if not managed effectively.
Long-Term Complications: Musculoskeletal and Visual Issues
Survivors of EVD often face long-term complications. Musculoskeletal issues, such as joint pain, and visual problems are common among those who have recovered from the acute phase of the disease. These symptoms can persist for years and significantly impact the quality of life of survivors.
Conclusion
Ebola Virus Disease presents a wide range of symptoms that evolve as the disease progresses. Early symptoms like fever, fatigue, and muscle pain can quickly escalate to severe gastrointestinal and hemorrhagic manifestations. Neurological symptoms and multi-organ dysfunction are also critical concerns. Understanding these symptoms is essential for timely diagnosis and effective management of EVD.
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