Symptoms Of Leprosy

Facial Disfigurement

This is the dreaded symptom of leprosy, especially centuries ago when leprosy was misunderstood, incurable, and thought to be caused by curses. Facial disfigurement may be in the form of unsightly lumps, nodules, and swelling on the facial area. The nerves controlling the eyelids may fail, causing the patient to be unable to close their eyelids, which can result in corneal damage and blindness. Eyelashes and eyebrows may fall out. The front teeth may loosen and also fall out. The bacteria attacks the nasal cartilage, which is the firm, flexible substance that gives the nose its shape. Cartilage damage from leprosy can cause the nose to become misshapen, often with a peculiar indentation in the center that causes the nose to somewhat resemble a saddle.

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