Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Chagas disease


Overview

Chagas disease is common in South America, Central America and Mexico, the primary home of the triatomine bug that transmits the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi.

Symptoms

The disease can be mild, causing swelling and a fever, or long lasting. Left untreated, it can cause congestive heart failure.

Treatments

Treatment for Chagas disease focuses on taking medications to kill the parasite and managing symptoms.