Leprosy - Frequently Asked Questions Details

Leprosy - Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common Frequently Asked Questions people often look for on the Internet about Hansen's Disease popularly known as Leprosy? As World Leprosy Eradication day is near, we are here to clear your doubts on leprosy. Every year In India we observed Leprosy eradication Day on the Last Sunday of January. This year it is on 30th January. This day is focused on people who are suffering from Leprosy or have experienced this disease. The day is an opportunity to raise awareness of the disease and call for an end to leprosy-related stigma and discrimination.

What is Leprosy?
Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease is an infection caused by slow-growing bacteria known as Mycobacterium Leprae. If left untreated this bacteria can affect multiple organs of the human body like nerves, skin, eyes, and lining mucosa.

Although, Leprosy is a rare disease but India caters a large number of patients. But again if left untreated in the first stage it can be deadly.

Is leprosy treatable?
The answer is, Yes! But remember you should only consult a genuine doctor for this disease. Any kind of home remedial solution can affect multiple organs and can things can go worst.
The best idea is to consult the best dermatologist in Kolkata to treat this kind of disease.

Symptoms of Leprosy?
People who suffer from Leprosy can experience whitish or brownish patch over skin, numbness over that area and hand foot, rashes, ulcers, joint pain, nose bleed etc. This can lead to Nerve injury and weight loss. Muscle Weakness, eye problems in the higher stages of this disease. And sometimes complete loss of hand, feet or eye sight. 

How does leprosy spread?
Leprosy is spread through airborne respiratory droplets. It means if a patient coughs or sneeze, the droplet may harm another person.

Can it spread by touch?
Leprosy is not that contagious. Just by mere touching, it would not be passed. But, in some cases, it can spread by touching the body fluid and rashes of people who have leprosy.

Is it inherited?
Noooo, it is not an inherited disease.

Is it completely curable?
Yes, it is curable. 

How much time does need for the complete cure?
It is a chronic disease, it may take some time to recover from leprosy, usually one to two year. In the worst-case scenario, it may stay lifelong.

Leprosy Prevention ideas?
As said earlier Leprosy cases are very low. The best way to prevent leprosy is to avoid body fluid, rashes, respiratory droplets of the patient. At present, BCG is the only vaccine available in the market that has shown some resistance against M. Laprae.

One of the best leprosy doctors in Kolkata can be found in Apollo Multispecialty Hospital Kolkata. Call to Book an appointment - 9123856730