Malaria occurs when a mosquito infected with a parasite bites an individual, causing the person to have chills, a high fever and/or anemia. MedlinePlus states that a person may experience the first symptoms of malaria between 10 days to four weeks after being infected. Tulane University states that chronic malaria occurs when antibodies from the previous infection accumulate in the kidneys, causing an individual to become reinfected. Symptoms associated with chronic malaria, which tend to decrease in severity and frequency as the individual builds immunity to the disease, include an enlarged spleen, anemia, jaundice, fever, chills and gastrointestinal problems.
Enlarged Spleen
A common symptom of chronic malaria is an enlarged spleen, according to Penn State Milton S. Hersey Medical Center. An enlarged spleen occurs when increasing red blood cells block blood vessels in the spleen, causing it to rapidly increase in size. If a person’s spleen becomes too large, then it could rupture and cause massive internal bleeding or hemorrhaging.
Anemia and Jaundice
People who are infected with chronic malaria may experience anemia and jaundice, if left untreated. The website Science Daily states that as a person’s immune system works to kill the parasites that cause chronic malaria, the body experiences a sharp decline in red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Anemia usually consists of fatigue, dizziness, headache and/or confusion. In some severe cases, people with malaria may develop a condition called jaundice. Jaundice occurs when a deficiency in red blood cells affects other organs within the body, such as the liver. When a person with malaria experiences a yellowing tint to the eyes and skin, it can signal abnormal liver function.
Fever and Chills
People with chronic malaria can develop alternating fevers and chills during the course of the infection, according to Penn State Milton S. Hersey Medical Center. A person may develop a fever as the individual's immune system fights the infection and works to prevent the parasite from multiplying and spreading throughout his body. Some people experience a high fever accompanied by severe sweating and extreme fatigue as their body temperature falls. In addition, people with malaria may complain of chills or being unusually cold. The MayoClinic.com states that these individuals may shake or shiver uncontrollably or they may have a hard time warming up. A person with malaria may have chills one moment and fever the next, resulting in a continuous cycle of exhaustion and discomfort.
Gastrointestinal Problems
People with chronic malaria may experience an upset stomach accompanied by moderate to severe nausea or vomiting, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. An individual with malaria may suffer from frequent bouts of uncontrollable diarrhea that consists of severe abdominal pain, bloating and/or painful cramping.
