What is the main symptom of paragonimiasis?

The main symptom of paragonimiasis is hemoptysis, which refers to the coughing up of blood. This condition is caused by infection with the lung fluke Paragonimus species, primarily Paragonimus westermani. The flukes usually migrate to the lungs, where they can cause significant inflammation and damage to lung tissue. As a result, pulmonary symptoms develop, and hemoptysis can occur due to the rupture of small blood vessels in the respiratory system or due to the infestation causing chronic bronchitis-like symptoms.

While other symptoms can accompany paragonimiasis, such as abdominal pain or coughing, hemoptysis is notably associated with the disease due to the direct impact of the fluke on lung tissues. Understanding this symptom is crucial for diagnosing paragonimiasis, especially in endemic regions where the population may be exposed to the parasites through consumption of undercooked freshwater crabs or crayfish.