There are two types of intestinal parasites, helminths and protozoa. Helminths are we what we know to be as tapeworms, pinworms, and roundworms. Protozoa are the giardia and cryptosporidium. People can live with parasites for many years without showing any symptoms, but once they do appear, they can be severe.
Common Symptoms
The most noticeable symptoms of intestinal parasites are diarrhea, nausea, and perianal (itching of the outer anal area) itching.
Minor Symptoms
Some people may experience symptoms such as a runny nose, restlessness, or blisters upon the mouth. Others have experienced allergy type symptoms (sneezing, itching), headaches, increased appetite, and extreme fatigue.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms may include joint pain, chronic fatigue, and auto immune deficiencies (such as continually getting sick).
Serious Symptoms
If the parasites go untreated, a person can experience bad smelling stools, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite, abdominal cramps and gas, mucous and blood in their stools, rashes and itching, and even passing worms in the stool.
Effects
Intestinal parasites can cause intestinal obstructions and block necessary nutrients. People can also suffer with mental capacity and suffer intestinal bleeding.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have an intestinal parasite, it is important to seek medical attention to properly diagnosis which parasite is inhabiting your intestine for proper treatment.
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