Lowri Denman, a 42-year-old woman from Cardiff, was left with 38 brain parasites after contracting a tapeworm during a trip to India in 2007. The infection led to a decade of seizures, psychosis, and uncertainty about her future.
Trip to India and Initial Infection
In 2007, Lowri traveled to India for two months with a friend. She enjoyed the culture and avoided common traveler's illnesses like 'Delhi belly.' However, four years later, she passed a meter-long tapeworm. Despite initial relief, she soon developed severe headaches and suffered a tonic-clonic seizure in 2011.
Diagnosis of Neurocysticercosis
After a three-month wait for a brain scan, Lowri was diagnosed with neurocysticercosis, a parasitic brain infection caused by pork tapeworm larvae. According to the World Health Organisation, tapeworms can be contracted through contaminated water or poor hygiene. Lowri had maintained a vegetarian diet during her trip.
Treatment and Challenges
Doctors treated her with steroids, albendazole, and later praziquantel. The parasites caused repeated flare-ups, with swelling returning in different brain areas when medication was reduced. Lowri lost her driving license and independence, fearing seizures while alone.
Mental Health Decline
By 2015, the parasites triggered paranoia and psychosis. Lowri was admitted to a neuropsychiatric ward for three months in 2016. She experienced panic attacks and believed she had done terrible things. It was unclear if symptoms were directly from the parasites or the trauma of treatment.
Recovery and Podcast Project
Lowri has now been seizure-free for 10 years, with medication managing her condition. She plans to launch a 12-part podcast, '38 Parasites,' to share her story and help others. With friend Nicola Brown, she is raising £25,000 via Crowdfunder, with the project shortlisted for the 2025 Whickers Podcast Pitch Award.
