Signs & Symptoms of Human Parasites

Parasites can invade the human body through food, drink, dirt and the fecal matter of animals. Some of these parasites that infect humans are pin worms, round worms and blastocystis hominis. Many people do not realize they harbor parasites and often mistake symptoms for other health issues. There are signs and symptoms that are associated with a human parasite infection.

Constipation

• A severe infection of large parasites can block the common bile duct or the intestines. The blockage slows bowel movements, causing constipation.

Diarrhea

• Some parasites in the intestines produce prostaglandin, which causes a loss of sodium and chloride within the body. The loss of sodium and chloride causes diarrhea.

Gas and Bloating

• Parasites that live in the upper intestines will cause inflammation that leads to gas and bloating. Frequent gas and bloating is a sign of a parasite infection.

Joint and Muscle Pains

• Intestinal parasites can move through the body and into the joints, causing fluid-filled cysts to form, which causes muscle and joint aches.

Anemia

• Some intestinal parasites can attach to the intestinal wall and absorb nutrients from the body, as well as cause blood loss, which leads to anemia.