How to Identify Giardiasis

Giardiasis is also commonly known as an intestinal infection that is caused by a parasite. The reason for many cases of diarrhea, the condition may affect one or several members of a family at the same time. Caused by the parasite giardia lamblia, it is spread through food and water contaminated by feces from both humans and animals. Individuals have been known to contract giardiasis from pool and lake water. Germs are spread through human contact with poor hygiene conditions. Symptoms don't generally begin to occur until 1 to 3 weeks after exposure, so learning to identify giardiasis may help prevent its spread. The condition affects the gastrointestinal tract of both children and adults and is particularly common in children.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Watch for signs of diarrhea in children and adults, especially after events that include crowded swimming conditions or meals. Symptoms of giardiasis may be mild or severe at the outset, so playing close attention to bowel habits often provides the first indication of something wrong.

2. Pay attention to any complaints of stomach cramps in children and adults alike. Many individuals confuse symptoms of giardiasis with symptoms of food poisoning. Some people suffer from severe cramps and diarrhea, while others may only experience mild bouts of each.

3. Look at stools to make sure they are normal in color and consistency. This may not be the most pleasant thing to do, but it is necessary for identifying signs of giardiasis and other digestive disorders. Stools of those affected with giardiasis may be particularly foul smelling or even greasy in nature.

4. Track complaints of nausea or vomiting for consultations with a family physician whenever necessary. In some cases, a slight fever may also be present.

Tips & Warnings

• Never drink unsanitary water from lakes or rivers. Avoid swallowing water in public swimming pools and small ponds and lakes.
• Giardiasis may lead to dehydration caused by severe diarrhea. The condition may also affect adequate absorption of nutrients from food. If you or a family member has any symptoms similar to those listed above, consult your family physician for tests.

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