The disease is more likely to occur in areas where sanitation systems are inadequate and where food contamination can occur.
Symptoms Can Vary Widely
Many individuals with cysticercosis may have no symptoms for years. Others may experience:
- Muscle pain or swelling
- Lumps beneath the skin
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Vision problems
- Seizures when the brain is affected
When the nervous system becomes involved, the condition is known as neurocysticercosis, one of the leading causes of acquired epilepsy in some parts of the world.
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Treatment and Recovery
Treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection. Doctors may prescribe antiparasitic medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other therapies to manage symptoms.
In some cases, treatment must be carefully planned because killing large numbers of parasites at once can trigger inflammation as the cysts begin to break down.