Malaria, sometimes called malaria fever or blackwater fever, is a disease that affects the red blood cells. Mosquitoes that are infected with a parasite called a sporozoite can spread the disease to human beings. People can also become infected with malaria through the transfusion of blood products that are tainted with parasites. Some of the symptoms of malaria mimic those of the flu, while others are more specific to malaria.
Fever
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) explains that a fever, accompanied by chills and sweating, are classic signs of "uncomplicated" malaria. People who live or travel in tropical climates may be more aware that these symptoms may point to malaria. Those who live in more temperate climates may just assume they are getting the flu at this point.
Aches and Pains
General aches and pains, including muscle weakness, may be a sign of malaria fever. The achiness may accompany a fever or may appear after the fever has broken.
Nausea
Nausea and vomiting may also be signs of malaria, when experienced with other symptoms of the disease.
Anemia
Anemia is one of the hallmark signs of malaria. According to the National Institutes of Health, when the parasites enter the body they live in the liver until they are mature. At the point of maturity, the parasites enter into the bloodstream and multiply. This process of repopulation takes place in the red blood cells and causes the cells to die. The result of the massive damage to the red blood cells is anemia.
Enlarged Organs
Some people who have malaria will show signs of the disease through the swelling of internal organs, including the liver and spleen. In some cases, these symptoms can lead to liver failure and internal hemorrhaging.
Jaundice
Jaundice is a sign of malaria and may occur in conjunction with liver failure and as a result of red blood cell damage. Jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes that signifies a higher-than-normal level of bilirubin in the blood. When the liver cannot process all of the dying red blood cells, bilirubin levels rise and the skin begins to give off a yellowish appearance.
