Giardiasis

Causative agent

Giardia lamblia. People become infected after swallowing Giardia cyst often found in water contaminated by raw sewage or animal waste

Transmission By

  • Contaminated water supplies
  • Contaminated food
  • Person-to-person contact

 Symptoms And Signs of Giardiasis

  • Abdominal bloating
  • Abdominal pain
  • Change in level of consciousness or alertness
  • Confusion
  • Cool or cold skin
  • Decreased urine output
  • Delirium
  • Delusions
  • Dry skin and mucous membranes
  • Excessive thirst
  • Flatulence
  • Fever and chills
  • Hallucinations
  • Mild diarrhoea involving the passage of pale, bulky, foul-smelling and greasy stool.
  • Muscle cramps and weakness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sudden loss of balance
  • Tachycardia
  • Weight loss

Investigations

  • Enteroscopy
  • Stool antigen test to check for Giardia
  • Stool test for ova and cyst

Treatment

Self-Care

  • Drink fluids such as sports drinks, diluted fruit juices, flat soda, broth, soups
  • Fluids should be taken in small amounts frequently throughout the day.
  • Avoid spicy, greasy, and fried foods.
  • After stools become formed, return to a regular diet.
  • Avoid milk for several weeks.

Medication

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