Giardiasis
Overview
Causes
Giardiasis is caused by a parasite. It can easily pass into humans after:
- Eating food or drinking water that has the parasite
- Swimming in water that has the parasite
- Contact with a person's hands contaminated by human or animal stool (poop)
- Oral to anal contact during sex
Risk Factors
Giardiasis is more common in places with poor water or sewage treatment. Asia and South America have the highest infection rates. Risk is also higher for people who:
- Live in crowded places with poor sanitation
- Drink untreated water
- Have low stomach acid or take stomach acide reducers
- Have oral to anal contact during sex
- Have a weakened immune system
- Are a day care worker or work in a group setting
- Swim in water sources that may be contaminated
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Some people do not have symptoms. Others may have:
- Loose, watery stools that are foul-smelling
- Belly pain or cramps
- Bloating
- Gas
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weight loss
-
Rarely:
- Mild fever
- Hives or other rash
- Swelling of eyes or joints
The infection can pass to others even if symptoms are not present.
Treatments
Treatment
Medicines will treat the infection. Other options to manage symptoms include:
- Fluids to prevent dehydration
- Avoidance of milk and milk products for 2 to 6 weeks
Prevention
Things that help reduce the risk of giardiasis include:
Washing hands often and always:
- After using the toilet
- After changing a diaper
- Before handling or eating food
When camping:
- Bringing bottled water for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth
- Boiling, filtering, or sterilizing untreated water before using it
- Washing or peeling raw fruits and vegetables before eating
When traveling overseas:
- Using only bottled water for drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth
- Eating only well cooked food that is served steaming hot
Avoiding contact with stool during sex by:
- Using a barrier, such as dental dam, during oral-anal sex
- Washing hands after touching a condom used during anal sex
- Washing hands after contact with the anal or rectal area
Water in swimming pools should be treated as advised.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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