QUESTION

I got malaria in Ghana in February 2012 and was treated for it and recovered within 10 days. I had no problem or illness after that. Returned to USA late May of 2012 healthy able to run 4 or 5 miles a day and be active. About 3 or 4 weeks later suddenly developed shortness of breath, chest pains with hunger and thirst. Have seen 5 different doctors and had extensive heart, lung, digestive, blood tests, thyroid, diabetis etc. All have come out okay except for recent blood test showing some very low iron levels (Iron always Ok previously). Still having chest pain, breathing problems, thirst and hunger. Can’t run more than a block now. Could this be related to malaria or similar illness from Ghana? Any suggestions on what it could be and what doctors should be looking for as the doctors seemed stumped? Has anyone else had similar problems after having malaria? I appreciate any assistance that you can provide.

ANSWER

Sorry to hear about your current situation.  My advice is to treat your low iron levels. There are cases where patients who have been cured of malaria still develop severe anemia, and it is conceivable that some of your symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain are caused by  severe anemia.  Treating anemia can often show dramatic results.  Oral iron tablets are effective as well as eating iron-rich foods (meat, greens such as spinach, dried apricots, beans etc).  If you don’t feel better in a couple of weeks, I suggest you go back to the clinic for further discussion with your health provider.