If you have trouble sleeping at night, then you probably shouldn't be reading this article. There is so much about the world we don't know and what lives in it, including infectious diseases that could annihilate a person. Here are some gnarly diseases that will make you want to cleanse yourself, if not go screaming for the hills.
Fournier's Gangrene
This disease is caused by a bacterial infection. It mostly strikes men in the genital region from abrasions or wounds. Microorganisms cause an infection to occur which then causes destruction of the skin, tissue under the skin and muscle. Women can also develop this disease due to episiotomies, abortions, or hysterectomies, but it is rare. Rarely children will develop Fournier due to circumcision, bug bites, or burns. The flesh of the infected area will turn black and spread killing the tissue as it spreads. Treatment requires extensive antibiotics and removal of any dead tissue, and if necessary, removal of dead tissue.
Vulvar Myiasis
Myiasis is an infection caused by the larvae of flies. It occurs predominately in rural areas, and is associated with poor hygiene. The larvae penetrate the skin, which leads to painful sores. Sometimes the larvae can be seen moving around in the open wounds. Treatment involves removal of the parasites and cleansing of the affected area. Sometimes Vaseline or nail polish removal is applied to suffocate the larvae. Two cases once involved a 17 and 19 year old who reportedly had 50-100 of these larvae infecting their vaginas.
Necrotizing Fasciitis
Most people know the more common name of this disease, flesh-eating bacteria. Usually this is a disease that is rare, but it is a very serious bacterial infection that needs prompt care. It can destroy muscle, skin, and underlying tissue. The flesh-eating bacteria is caused by streptococcus pyogenes. An infection can develop when the bacteria enters the body through a cut or scrape. Then all heck breaks loose. The bacteria starts to grow and release toxins that kills the tissue, interferes with blood flow, and rapidly spreads the disease. Treatments requires antibiotics, surgery may be required, and if needed, antibiotics will be given intravenously.
Helminthes
More commonly known as parasitic worms, they are parasites that feed off their host, thus causing disruption of their host's well being. Parasitic worms reproduce depending on the species of worm, either male or female mating, or more commonly, by breaking off segments that contain both male and female organs. All offspring are passed through poorly cooked meat, contaminated water, feces, mosquitoes, and where hygiene is poor. About 40 million Americans are plagued with the most common worm, the pinworm. Ever heard the term “itchy butt?” Now you know what it is. When you scratch the affected area, you transfer the bacteria to your fingernails. Contaminated fingers can carry the pinworm for 2-3 weeks.
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
Got moo? Mad cow disease causes degeneration of the brain and spinal cord. It can also cause the eyes to turn red. While primarily effecting bovines, it is believed that the disease is transferable to humans through infected meat. When the disease is transmitted into a healthy animal, plaque fibers develop microscopic holes in the brain leading to a degeneration of mental and physical capabilities. Animals loose their coordination, their ability to walk or stand, and will eventually die a painful death.
