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GiardiasisGiardiasis

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Giardia. You may become infected by ingesting contaminated food or water. Exposure to the stool of someone who`s infected can also cause infection.

When to Go to the Emergency Room (ER)

Get medical help for severe symptoms that include:

Diarrhea
Stomach bloating or fullness
Nausea or vomiting
Unplanned weight loss
Blood in your stool
Dehydration

What to Expect in the ER

You will be examined and will likely have a stool culture. This checks a sample of your stool for the parasite that causes the disease. If giardiasis is suspected or confirmed, you may be prescribed medication that you take for 5 to 7 days. In many cases, this clears the infection.

Preventing Giardiasis

Take these steps to help prevent infection with Giardia:

Wash your hands after using the bathroom and before eating.
Wash your hands each time you change a child's diaper.
Avoid drinking from rivers and streams.
Wash or peel raw produce before using.

Publication Source: Center for Disease Control

Online Source: Center for Disease Control

Date Last Reviewed: 2004-09-19T00:00:00-06:00

Date Last Modified: 2002-09-27T00:00:00-06:00

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Giardiasis

When to Go to the Emergency Room (ER)

What to Expect in the ER

Preventing Giardiasis

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