Expert: Florence M Rollwagen - 12/8/2008

Question
QUESTION: does filaria cause someone to increase in weight.and if someone with filaria is increasing normally in weight does it mean he or she is very immune.can some fat someone pose a strong immunity to filaria

ANSWER: Hi again, Pascal:

Filariasis can block lymphatic drainage and cause an increase in fluid in the affected area.  This doesn't mean real weight, as in fat.

No, I don't think obesity is related to immunity to filaria.

Write back if you have more questions.

FM Rollwagen, PhD

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QUESTION: there are people who eat  enough fruits which provides vitamin c (7fruits) but still show serious signs of itching.because i thought vit c is the basic nutrient which boast the immune system.so why the itching.does it mean it has provoked the itching filaria or it takes time to boast the immune system.or has it boasted the immune system and it is now fighting against the disease which causes intense itch.please does sugary or sweetened food promotes the rate of the filaria itching or not.because i head rumours abt that please give me its details.for sugar is also an important source of energy .thanks  .

Answer
Hi Pascal:  Usually when we talk about "boosting" the immune system, we mean the innate immune system.  Immunity to filaria lies mostly with the acquired immune system, so it's not clear that high doses of Vitamin C will affect acquired immunity.

I don't think sugar has anything to do with itching from filaria, but it can suppress some aspects of the innate immune system.

I should add that the AllExperts forum is not a place for conversation, just for answering questions.  Feel free to write back if you have a serious question, not a rumor or something you heard from somebody else.

Thanks,

FM Rollwagen, PhD