A father from Greater Manchester, Ross Constable, faced serious health issues after being bitten by a mosquito during a trip to Thailand. Upon returning from his vacation in Phuket with his family in 2019, he started experiencing flu-like symptoms and sought medical advice. Doctors initially speculated about various conditions, including Alice in Wonderland syndrome and Japanese encephalitis, due to his puzzling symptoms like skin shedding, memory distortion, gum bleeding, and joint pain.
Ross described his distressing experience, noting persistent symptoms such as skin shedding, extreme thirst, and altered consciousness. Despite multiple doctor visits and tests, his condition worsened as he dealt with excruciating physical and mental challenges. Eventually, he was diagnosed with dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease that can have severe consequences.
Following his diagnosis, Ross struggled with neurological complications, including Tourette’s syndrome, which significantly impacted his daily life. Apart from physical symptoms, he battled mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD-like thoughts. While dengue fever doesn’t directly cause Tourette’s syndrome, it can trigger neurological problems in some cases.
Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis can lead to neurological disorders, affecting the brain and nervous system. Despite the physical symptoms subsiding, Ross continues to cope with Tourette’s syndrome, acknowledging that it may be a lifelong condition. With the support of loved ones and his passion for art, Ross is gradually recovering and finding solace in nature.
He aims to raise awareness of his journey through an upcoming art show, emphasizing the importance of support, self-acceptance, and nature in the healing process. Ross views his challenges as opportunities for growth and gratitude, appreciating life despite the adversities he faces.