How is giardia intestinalis transmitted

Symptoms of giardiasis generally show up one or two weeks after exposure. Common symptoms include:. You may have to submit one or more stool samples for testing. A technician will check your stool sample for giardia parasites. You could have to submit more samples during treatment. Your doctor may also perform an enteroscopy. This procedure involves running a flexible tube down your throat and into your small intestine.

This will allow your doctor to examine your digestive tract and take a tissue sample. In most cases, giardiasis eventually clears up on its own. Your doctor might prescribe medication if your infection is severe or prolonged. Most doctors will recommend treatment with antiparasitic drugs, rather than leaving it to clear up on its own.

Certain antibiotics are commonly used to treat giardiasis:. Giardiasis can lead to complications such as weight loss and dehydration from diarrhea.

The infection can also cause lactose intolerance in some people. Children under 5 years old who have giardiasis are at risk for malnutrition , which can interfere with their physical and mental development. Ponds, streams, rivers, and other bodies of water can all be sources of giardia. Bring bottled water with you when you go hiking or camping. You should also avoid brushing your teeth with tap water. Keep in mind that tap water can also be present in ice and other beverages.

Avoid eating uncooked local produce. Be cautious about sexual practices associated with the spread of this infection, such as anal sex. Use a condom to reduce the chance of contracting giardiasis. Giardiasis infections usually last about six to eight weeks, but problems such as lactose intolerance can persist after the infection clears up.

Yellow stool may be caused by changes in your diet. It may also be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Here are seven possible causes. You can get infected with giardia if your hands become dirty with feces — parents changing a child's diapers are especially at risk.

So are child care workers and children in child care centers, where outbreaks are increasingly common. The giardia parasite can also spread through anal sex. The giardia parasite is a very common intestinal parasite. Although anyone can pick up giardia parasites, some people are especially at risk:. Giardia infection is almost never fatal in industrialized countries. But it can cause lingering symptoms and serious complications, especially in infants and children.

The most common complications include:. No drug or vaccine can prevent giardia infection. But commonsense precautions can go a long way toward reducing the chances that you'll become infected or spread the infection to others. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.

This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Giardia infection is an intestinal infection marked by stomach cramps, bloating, nausea and bouts of watery diarrhea. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Leder K, et al. Giardiasis: Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis. Diagnosis and Treatment Information for Medical Professionals.

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