Overview
Leprosy is a slow-growing bacterial infection that mainly affects the skin and nerves. It is much less contagious than people fear and is completely curable with a course of combined antibiotics provided free at government centres in India. Early treatment prevents the nerve damage that can otherwise lead to loss of feeling and deformity, so recognising the first pale, numb skin patches matters greatly.
Symptoms
- Pale or reddish skin patches with reduced sensation
- Numbness in the hands, feet or affected patches
- Thickened nerves, often felt near the elbow or knee
- Muscle weakness in the hands or feet
- Painless wounds or burns from loss of feeling
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for any skin patch that has lost sensation, or for numbness or weakness in the hands or feet. Treatment is free and effective.
Causes
Infection with Mycobacterium leprae bacteria, spread through prolonged close contact with an untreated person via droplets from the nose and mouth.