GIARDIA INFECTION

Giardia infection is characterized by episodes of watery diarrhea, nausea, bloating, and stomach pains. This is the result of a minute parasite that can be found worldwide, especially in areas with contaminated water and poor hygiene.

Furthermore, giardia infection is among the leading roots of waterborne diseases in the US. These parasites have been discovered in wilderness lakes and streams, wells, whirlpool spas, swimming pools, and public drinking sources. Food and personal skin interaction may both transmit this infection.

SYMPTOMS

Most persons with giardia infection have no signs but still contain the pathogen and may transmit it to others via their feces. Signs and symptoms of people who become ill generally develop 7 to 21 days following the contact and might involve the following:

  • Watery, occasionally foul-smelling diarrhea, which might be accompanied by oily, mushy stools.
  • Fatigue
  • Constipation and Bloating
  • Loss of weight due to vomiting and nausea.

The symptoms of giardia could last between two and six weeks, although they could continue longer or return in certain patients.

DIAGNOSIS

Your physician will most likely analyze a specimen of your feces to help identify giardia infection. You could be requested to provide many stool samples taken over several days for authenticity. The specimens are tested in a laboratory to see whether they contain parasites. Stool tests could also be done to assess the efficacy of any therapy you receive.

TREATMENT

If they are not probable to transmit the infection, adults, and kids with giardia infection without symptoms typically do not require therapy. Several individuals who experience issues recover independently within a few weeks.

Physicians often treat giardia infection using drugs such as:

  • Metronidazole. The most often utilized medication for giardia infection is metronidazole.
  • Tinidazole. Tinidazole functions similarly to metronidazole and has several similar adverse effects; however, it may be used in one dosage.
  • Nitazoxanide. Nitazoxanide could be simpler for youngsters to chew since it is available in liquid form. Brightly colored yellow urine, yellow eyes, flatulence, and nausea could be the adverse effects.

Due to the risk of adverse pharmacological effects on the baby, there are currently no routinely approved treatments for giardia infection in pregnancy. When your symptoms are minor, your physician may advise you to postpone therapy until after the first three months. Consult your health professional about the best treatments available when treatment is required.

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