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Mexican-Americans and other Latin Cultures
Specific Folk Illnesses
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Below is a listing of common folk illnesses in
the Mexican-American community.9 Other Latin American cultures
may share beliefs in these illnesses, or have their own variations.
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| Caida de Mollera, or fallen fontanelle |
This affects babies and symptoms include crying, failure to suckle,
irritability, sunken eyes, vomiting and diarrhea. It is caused
by pulling a baby away too quickly from the breast or bottle, if
a baby falls on the floor, or carrying the baby incorrectly. |
| Empacho |
This affects all age groups and symptoms include anorexia, vomiting,
diarrhea, indigestion, bloating and constipation. It is caused
by a bolus of undigested or uncooked food that has stuck to the
wall of the stomach or intestine. |
| Susto, or “fright sickness” |
This affects all age groups and symptoms include extreme lethargy,
anxiety, depression, insomnia, and irritability. It is caused by
a frightening or traumatic experience. A severe form of the illness
is when the spirit leaves the body because of the fright. |
| Mal Puesto |
This can affect all age groups and the most frequent symptoms
include sudden attacks of screaming, crying or singing, convulsions
and uncontrolled urination. This is an evil illness intentionally
put on the individual by a hex. |
| Mal Ojo, or evil eye |
This affects primarily children, all of whom are susceptible.
Symptoms include crying, restlessness, fever, and occasionally
vomiting. It is caused by someone with a “strong eye” who
looks at or admires a child. |
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