Diseases
giardiasis
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Giardiasis is a diarrheal disease caused by the microscopic parasite Giardia duodenalis (or “Giardia” for short). Once a person or animal has been infected with Giardia, the parasite lives in the intestines and is passed in stool (poop). Once outside the body, Giardia can sometimes survive for weeks or even months.
Symptoms
- nausea
- fatigue
- watery, sometimes foul-smelling diarrhea that alternate with soft, greasy stool
- stomach cramps and bloating
- gas
Causes
- swallowing contaminated water
- eating contaminated food
- person-to-person contact
Risk factors
- children
- people without access to safe drinking water
- people who have anal sex.
Diagnosis
- stool tests
- medical history
- signs and symptoms.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is giardiasis?
Giardiasis is a diarrheal disease caused by the microscopic parasite Giardia duodenalis (or “Giardia” for short). Once a person or animal has been infected with Giardia, the parasite lives in the intestines and is passed in stool (poop). Once outside the body, Giardia can sometimes survive for weeks or even months.
What are the symptoms of giardiasis?
nausea, fatigue, watery, sometimes foul-smelling diarrhea that alternate with soft, greasy stool, stomach cramps and bloating, gas
What causes giardiasis?
swallowing contaminated water; eating contaminated food; person-to-person contact
Which medicines are used for giardiasis?
tinidazole
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