Leprosy, or Hansen’s disease, is a chronic condition affecting the skin, nerves, and eyes. Early signs include numbness, painless skin patches, and thickened skin, while advanced symptoms can lead to muscle weakness and deformities. Timely diagnosis and treatment with multi-drug therapy can effectively cure the disease and prevent complications.

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious condition caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. Though rare in many parts of the world today, early detection and treatment are essential to prevent long-term complications. The disease primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, respiratory tract, and eyes. Understanding the signs of leprosy is crucial for timely medical intervention.

Early Signs of Leprosy

  • Skin Lesions:
    • Painless, pale, or red patches on the skin are often the first noticeable signs.
    • These patches may lack sensation to touch, heat, or pain, indicating nerve involvement.
  • Numbness or Tingling:
    • Affected areas of the skin may become numb due to nerve damage.
    • This numbness can progress to loss of sensation in the hands, feet, or face.
  • Thickened Skin:
    • Skin may appear thickened or dry in specific areas, especially around the face, ears, and extremities.

Progressive Signs of Leprosy

If untreated, leprosy can lead to more severe symptoms:

  • Muscle Weakness:
    • Weakness in the hands or feet may result from nerve damage.
    • Dropped feet or clawed hands can develop over time.
  • Ulcers and Wounds:
    • Loss of sensation increases the risk of unnoticed injuries, leading to ulcers or infections.
  • Facial Deformities:
    • Severe cases can cause deformities like loss of eyebrows, nasal collapse, or facial nodules.
  • Eye Problems:
    • Damage to nerves controlling the eyelids can lead to dry eyes and vision loss.
  • Enlarged Nerves:
    • Nerves near the elbows, knees, or sides of the neck may become visibly swollen or thickened.

Diagnosing Leprosy

If you notice any of the above signs, it is crucial to consult a specialist immediately. At Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta, expert dermatologists use advanced diagnostic tools like skin smears and biopsies to confirm leprosy. Timely identification and treatment of leprosy can:

  • Halt disease progression.
  • Prevent nerve damage and deformities.
  • Minimise stigma associated with visible symptoms.

Treatment and Management

Multi Drug Therapy (MDT), recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), can treat the disease and prevent its spread. MDT includes a combination of antibiotics like rifampicin, clofazimine, and dapsone, taken over several months to years, depending on the severity.

How to Prevent Leprosy?

To prevent leprosy:

  • Avoid prolonged contact with untreated patients, as leprosy spreads through respiratory droplets.
  • Practice good hygiene and maintain a healthy immune system.
  • Regular check-ups with the best Dermatologists in Bangaloreto help monitor any skin or nerve-related symptoms.

Consult Experts for Peace of Mind

Leprosy is a treatable condition, and with proper care, individuals can lead healthy lives. If you or a loved one notice any signs of leprosy, seeking timely medical attention is crucial. Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta offers comprehensive dermatological care, supported by the latest technology and expert specialists.

Note: TNT Magazine is not a qualified source for medical advice, we suggest always seeking advice from an authorised medical professional.