The most common intestinal protozoan parasites are: Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica, Cyclospora cayetanenensis, and Cryptosporidium spp.
Learn MoreThere are three main classes of parasites that can cause disease in humans: protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites.
Learn MoreSigns and Symptoms
In stools, the worms look like small pieces of white cotton thread. Because of their size and white color, pinworms are difficult to see. The male worm is rarely seen because it remains inside the intestine. It is best to search for pinworms at night, when the female comes out to lay her eggs.
Etiam posuereWhile some parasites don't cause noticeable symptoms, some grow, reproduce or invade healthy functioning systems, making their hosts sick, resulting in parasitic infection. For instance, some parasites may consume your food and leave you hungry after meals, resulting in an inability to gain weight.
Etiam posuereFoods to avoid when you have parasites include sugar, grains, dairy, coffee and alcohol, as these are believed to “feed” the parasites and encourage their growth.
Etiam posuereLocal irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea are the usual symptoms. The low oxygen levesl in the gut usually will kill the maggots, but some survive intact because their outer layers are resistant to digestive enzymes.
Etiam posuereThe symptoms of gnathostomiasis are thought to be related to the movement of the parasite through the body. When someone eats the parasite, it moves through the wall of the stomach or intestine and liver.