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Parasites in Poop: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Parasites can occur in your feces, largely due to improper hygiene or the consumption of contaminated water. This guide covers the commonly found parasites in your feces, their possible causes, symptoms, and treatment.
Cause of Parasites in Poop
Parasites in your bowel movements may result from a variety of causes, such as:
- Eating raw/undercooked meat that is contaminated by parasites
- Consumption of contaminated water – especially water contaminated with the feces of an infected person.
- Consumption of contaminated food or drinks, such as fruits and vegetables that are washed with contaminated water.
- Having contact with an infected person or animal.
- Having contact with contaminated surfaces such as bathrooms, floors or objects.
Commonly Found Parasites in Poop
The most common parasites found in your feces include:
- Giardia: Giardia is a single-celled organism that lives in the intestines of humans and animals. It is spread through contact with contaminated soil, food, water, or surfaces.
- Cryptosporidium: Cryptosporidium is another single-celled organism that lives in the intestines of humans and animals. It is spread through contact with contaminated soil, food, water, or surfaces.
- Entamoeba Histolytica: Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoa that infects the colon. It is spread through contact with contaminated soil, food, water, or surfaces.
- Hookworm: Hookworm is a roundworm that can live in the small intestine of humans. It is spread through contact with contaminated soil, food, water, or surfaces.
- Ascaris lumbricoides: Ascaris lumbricoides is a roundworm that can live in the small intestine of humans. It is spread through contact with contaminated soil, food, water, or surfaces.
Signs and Symptoms of Parasites in Poop
The signs and symptoms of parasites in your poop will depend on the type of parasite. Commonly observed signs and symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Weight loss
- Malnutrition
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Bloating
- Gas
Treatment for Parasites in Poop
Treating parasites in your poop will depend on the type of parasite, its severity, and your general health. Treatment may involve:
- Medication: Your doctor may prescribe medications such as anti-parasitic drugs, antibiotics, or antiprotozoal drugs to treat parasitic infections in your poop.
- Good Hygiene: Good hygiene is essential for preventing the spread of parasites. This includes washing your hands often, cleaning surfaces, and avoiding contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
- Change in Diet: Eating a well-balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables can help to boost your immunity and reduce your risk of parasitic infections.
Parasites in your poop are common and can be caused by poor hygiene, contaminated water, or contact with infected people or animals. If you experience any of the signs and symptoms associated with parasites in your poop, contact your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
