Giardiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the microscopic parasite Giardia intestinalis. It is found in food and water that has been contaminated with feces. While it is known to be problematic in the developing world, it is also a common cause of disease in the U.S. as well. Luckily, giardiasis is usually responsive to treatment.
Things You'll Need
- Doctor's appointment
- Pharmacist
- Water filter (for prevention)
- Antibacterial soap (for prevention)
Instructions
How to Treat Giardia Infection
Identify symptoms. Common symptoms of giardiasis include diarrhea, flatulence, greasy stools, abdominal cramps and upset stomach or nausea. Symptoms may also include weight loss or dehydration. Symptoms will usually appear a week or two after infection, but in some cases may not appear at all.
Visit the doctor. To diagnose an infection of giardiasis, a doctor may ask for a stool sample for testing, or even multiple samples over a few days.
Follow your doctor's instructions. Treatment for a giardia infection is usually unnecessary, and the infection will usually go away on its own. If there are mild or no symptoms, a doctor may not prescribe any drugs but may give advice on hydration replacement. If symptoms are persistent, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics such as metronidazole (Flagyl) or tinidazole (Tindamax or Fasigyn), which are effective but also carry side effects including nausea, vomiting, and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Try an over-the-counter treatment. Are you in a developing country known for its parasites? In many developing countries, pharmacists can diagnose minor infections, and the same medications that are available only by prescription in the U.S. are usually available behind the counter. Stop in at a pharmacy and describe your symptoms, and a pharmacist may be able to sell you the correct medication.
Prevent future infection. Of course, the best treatment is to avoid parasitic infection in the first place. Purify drinking water by boiling and filtering, wash your hands regularly, and avoid any contact with fecal matter, giardia's route of transmission.