How do you know if have giardia parasites?

Giardiasis, caused by the microscopic parasite Giardia, can cause several symptoms, including:

- Diarrhea (usually foul-smelling and loose)

- Gas and bloating

- Abdominal cramps

- Nausea

- Fatigue

- Weight loss

- Dehydration

- Fever

Symptoms may appear within 1 to 3 weeks of exposure and can persist for 2 to 6 weeks if left untreated. In some individuals, giardiasis may not cause any noticeable symptoms.

If you experience these symptoms and suspect giardiasis, it's important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. A healthcare professional may request a stool sample to test for the presence of Giardia parasites or antigens. Other diagnostic methods, such as blood tests or endoscopies, may also be used in certain cases.