Just wanted to see if anyone out there has had malaria (Plasmodium Falciparum). I have recovered from chronic lyme and con-infections (using many modes of healing)and my immune system has been in good shape for the past year. I am now in East Africa, and had malaria. I used abx to knock it out but only because I did not have any artemisinin. Any ideas on what to use for prevention? And dosage?
Much thanks.
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
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Whatever you used, what it an anti-protozoal agent? That would be the first thing to consider.
I was under the impression that antibiotics are not effective against malaria, in general, but you must have gotten some type that is - maybe it also had anti-protozoa properties. If you look up what you took, you might see if it had other agents in with the abx.
As for now, I assume you had a doctor then but now you don't have a doctor (?) and that you have access only to certain things - otherwise you'd be treated by a doctor there now.
Is there anyway you can get a formula with artmesinin in it? It is best combined and not as a single therapy - that is true with any malarial treatment.
How long did your treatment last? From what I've read, it seems that treatment for a few months would be best to be sure it does not become chronic.
As for protection from new exposures?
Is there anyone where you are that can guide you? You may have different strains where you are that require specific measures.
I know in some villages, the mosquito nets and wall of houses are treated with chemicals. I assume where ever you are there are certain community precautions, but treating your mosquito net may be the most important - and retreating it regularly.
(I'm not a fan of chemicals but, with certain guidance, there can be safe ways to work even with DDT - in proper amounts. There may also be some effective alternatives but it's best to be certain you have protection where you sleep.)
Other than a formula with Artemisinin, Bidens is one that comes to mind. Neem is another. I don't know if you have around there, Chanca Piedra. Allicin also has some antimalarial properties. Holy Basil (Tulsi), too.
You can do a web search of those - and others - but, ultimately, I hope you can find good medical guidance as there may be some important local considerations to what you are treating as well - and each patient is also unique.
If you can't find a doctor or nurse in person, does the government of the country you are in have a web site that offers such guidance?
(if you go to that web link, you can click on each of these names and go right to the research page on that - complete with citations to support their research.)
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[ 04. December 2008, 01:10 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
Posted by ajisuun (Member # 17658) on :
I don't know what you use for your malaria prevention, but I use doxycycline for mine. I live in West Africa where there is a lot of chloroquine resistant malaria. I've only used the doxy as malaria preventative for about 2 years, but Peace Corp has been using it for years.
I've never had malaria and I've lived in Africa for over 10 years. So I haven't had malaria combined with lyme, but since doxy treats both that would be my approach.
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
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ajisuun,
That is good to know about doxy [as preventative, not a sole treatment] - and the Peace Corps as a source for information.
I stumbled upon this page that is full of great detail, too.