What is parasitosis?
Parasitosis or parasitic infection is a disease caused by a parasitic organism. Parasites are organisms that live in or on another organism (host), extracting nutrients from the host and usually causing harm to the host. Parasites can be classified as either ectoparasites or endoparasites.
Ectoparasites, such as lice, fleas, ticks, mites, and leeches, live on the outside of the host. Endoparasites, such as intestinal worms, tapeworms, flukes, protozoa, and nematodes, live inside the host's body. Some parasites can only infect humans, while others can infect both humans and animals.
A parasitic infection is a serious health condition, and it can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
* Abdominal pain
* Diarrhea
* Nausea and vomiting
* Fever
* Anemia
* Weight loss
* Fatigue
* Skin rashes
* Swollen lymph nodes
* Organ damage
Parasitic infections can be diagnosed through a variety of tests, including blood tests, stool tests, and biopsies. Treatment for parasitic infections usually involves medication to kill the parasite.
Prevention of parasitic infection involves:
* Avoiding contact with animals that may be carrying parasites
* Eating only cooked meat and fish
* Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating
* Drinking clean water
* Practicing good hygiene