What Are the Treatments for a Parasitic Infection?

Parasites are not just a problem for underdeveloped countries. There are countless ways you can become infected. You can become infected by eating undercooked meat, by walking barefoot, through insect bites, drinking contaminated water or inhaling contaminated dust. The symptoms of a parasitic infection can vary, depending on the parasite. Sometimes, you may have parasites without having any symptoms. In general, however, common symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, dysentery, fatigue, weight loss and an itching or a rash around the anus. You may also notice worms in your stool.

Medications

• Many different medications can be used to treat a parasitic infection. The type of medication your doctor prescribes may depend on the type of parasite you have. Drugs commonly prescribed for hookworms and pinworms include albendazole, mebendazole and pyrantel pamoate. If you have a tapeworm infection, you will be given a single dose of praziquantel. Sometimes, the tapeworm larvae can travel to the brain. In these cases, the patient may take additional medications, including corticosteroids to treat the inflammation. Giardiasis is an intestinal parasite that commonly contaminates water supplies. Medications that can treat giardiasis include tinidazole, metronidazole and nitazoxanide. Pregnant women should not take some of the medications used to treat parasites. Check with your doctor about all the possible side effects of your medication.

Nutrition

• Good nutritional habits can help rid your body of parasites, as well as help prevent you from getting them in the first place. Aim for a diet high in fiber, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as these will help cleanse your body and improve your immune system. Limit foods that parasites thrive upon. This includes sugary and fatty foods, as well as dairy products. Drink plenty of water. Try eating a mixture of honey and papaya seeds. These foods, as well as raw garlic, carrots, pumpkin seeds, beets and pomegranates can help cleanse your body of parasites. Adding probiotics, such as acidophilus, to your diet can prevent parasites from spreading.

Herbal Remedies

• You may also find some relief with herbal remedies. The wormwood herb and citrus seed extract can both help combat intestinal parasites. If you purchase these supplements, carefully follow the directions on the label and do not overuse wormwood. You can also try any herbs containing berberine, which is an antimicrobial substance that can prevent parasites from settling in your intestines. Goldenseal, goldthread, barberry and Oregon grape are all herbs that contain berberine. Be sure to ask your doctor about taking herbal supplements. There is a possibility that you may be allergic to them or that your current prescription medication interacts with them.