March 9th 2024.
A man in Florida was recently experiencing intense and persistent migraines. After seeking medical help, he was shocked to learn that the cause of his headaches was tapeworm eggs residing in his brain. At 52 years old, he had been using medication to manage his migraines, but they had become more frequent and the medication was no longer effective.
Upon further examination, brain scans revealed the presence of multiple cysts on both sides of his brain. The doctors who treated him published a report in the American Journal of Case Reports, explaining that these cysts were actually pork tapeworm eggs. They had caused swelling under his skull, which was the root cause of his migraines.
It is believed that the man's consumption of undercooked bacon may have led to the tapeworm infection. He had a preference for "soft bacon" and may have unknowingly consumed microscopic eggs that eventually hatched and developed into tapeworms. These worms then laid eggs, which were passed through his feces.
The doctors suspect that the man's lack of proper handwashing may have caused the eggs to re-enter his body and travel through his bloodstream to his brain. This is known as neurocysticercosis, a rare condition where tapeworms enter the brain. The report also mentioned that it is uncommon to encounter pork infected with tapeworms in the United States, and it is more commonly found in developing countries where pigs have access to human feces.
The doctors emphasized the importance of seeking further testing if a person experiences changes in their migraines, as it could be a sign of a tapeworm infection. They also noted that seizures occur in 80% of patients with neurocysticercosis, and symptoms may not appear until months or years after the initial infection.
The man, who lives in Orlando and had not recently traveled abroad, was admitted to the hospital. He was treated with corticosteroids to reduce the swelling in his brain, as well as medication to treat the tapeworm infection. Thankfully, the treatment was successful, and his cysts disappeared, and his migraines improved.
This case serves as a reminder that tapeworm infections are rare in the developed world. However, in 2022, doctors in Australia were shocked to find a live worm in the brain of a woman who had been experiencing forgetfulness, depression, abdominal pain, and night sweats. She eventually had brain surgery, and that's when they discovered an eight-centimeter-long roundworm.
In conclusion, it's essential to be cautious with the consumption of undercooked pork and to practice proper handwashing to prevent tapeworm infections. And for those who experience changes in their migraines, it's crucial to seek medical attention and undergo further testing to rule out a tapeworm infection. Stay informed and updated with the latest news and stories by following us on Whatsapp!
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