Giardia in Humans – What You Should Kno

November 25, 2011 | By Admin In Human Parasites |

Giardia in Humans – What You Should Know

The Mayo Clinic is ne the leading medical references on the worldwide web. According to the Mayo Clinic a “Giardia infection is an intestinal infection marked by abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea and bouts of watery diarrhea.” The cause of Giardia in humans is a parasite so tiny that it is microscopic.

You might be surprised to learn that this parasite can be found virtually everywhere. However, it is most commonly prevalent in areas where sanitation is poor and the water is unsafe to drink. Individuals traveling to any location where these two circumstances exist should be aware of the symptoms, treatments, and prevention of Giardia.

Interestingly, not every person infected will exhibit symptoms. Some never develop symptoms, but they do carry and spread the parasite. According to the Mayo Clinic, if symptoms do develop they will do so within “one to two weeks after exposure and may include:”

  • “Watery, sometimes foul-smelling diarrhea that may alternate with soft, greasy stools”
  • “Fatigue”
  • “Abdominal cramps and bloating”
  • “Belching gas with a bad taste”
  • “Nausea”
  • “Weight loss”

If you experience the symptoms of abdominal bloating, loose stools, and nausea that continue for over one week you should confer with your doctor.

Giardia in humans does not always need treatment Individuals who fail to develop symptoms are not candidates for treatment unless they are at risk of spreading the parasite. Individuals who develop symptoms often recovery quickly and also generally do not need treatment. If the infection persists, a doctor will issue one of our medications to treat the infection:

  • Metronidazole (Flagyl)
  • Tinidazole (Tindamax)
  • Nitazoxanide (Alinia)
  • Paromomycin

At this time, no known drug or medication can prevent a giardia infection. However, there are many common-sense ways to prevent an infection. Washing your hands is an easy and effective way of preventing many infections, including Giardia in humans. You should wash your hands after using the restroom or changing a diaper and before preparing or eating a meal. Always use soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer. You can also purify wilderness water before drinking or use bottled water. Keeping your mouth closed when swimming and practicing safe sex can also prevent an infection.

 

References:

The Mayo Clinic – Giardia Infection (Giardiasis) Definition

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/giardia-infection/DS00739

 

The Mayo Clinic – Giardia Infection (Giardiasis) Symptoms

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/giardia-infection/DS00739/DSECTION=symptoms

 

The Mayo Clinic – Giardia Infection (Giardiasis) Treatments and drugs

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/giardia-infection/DS00739/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs

 

The Mayo Clinic – Giardia Infection (Giardiasis) Prevention

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/giardia-infection/DS00739/DSECTION=prevention

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