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What are the Different Parasite Symptoms?

S. Gonzales
S. Gonzales

Contrary to popular belief, parasitic infection is not confined to undeveloped or Third World countries. Those who live in developed countries can be stricken with parasites. Many different parasites exist and, thus, parasite symptoms can be specific to the type of infestation experienced. However, the following is a list of general symptoms that may point to intestinal parasites.

Constipation is often seen among parasite symptoms. Intestinal parasites that live in the human body's gastrointestinal tract can obstruct the intestinal tract and bile duct, which can then lead to constipation. While multiple parasites can achieve this, constipation can also be the fault of one worm that is shaped and sized sufficiently enough to block the tract.

Parasite symptoms can include hives.
Parasite symptoms can include hives.

Diarrhea or loose and watery stools can also belong to the list of potential parasite symptoms. If an infection is present, protozoa infections are usually to blame for this symptom. Diarrhea can occur because the protozoa effect sodium and chloride levels in the body.

Irritable bowel syndrome can be a direct result of parasites negatively effecting the intestines. When parasites latch on or otherwise come into contact with the intestine, disruption of the bowel system can occur. As a result, a person can have some trouble absorbing nutrients entering his body and stool may be difficult to pass.

Tapeworms are likely the most notorious of parasitic worms.
Tapeworms are likely the most notorious of parasitic worms.

Bloating and excess gas may be attributed to parasitic infection. Parasite infections can irritate the upper part of the small intestine, causing both of these symptoms to arise. These symptoms may increase in severity when the infected person eats foods known for digestion difficulty, such as beans or certain raw vegetables.

Anemia can also be linked to parasite symptoms. It can develop after a parasite latches onto the intestine's mucosa and begins to drain the host of nutrients. An infection of this sort can result in pernicious anemia or severe iron deficiency.

Irritable bowel syndrome can be a direct result of parasites negatively effecting the intestines.
Irritable bowel syndrome can be a direct result of parasites negatively effecting the intestines.

Other potential parasite symptoms include those that may not be so obvious. Skin problems like rashes, hives, and eczema can potentially be the result of parasites. Teeth grinding or bruxism, especially in children, may be symptom of a foreign infection. Chronic fatigue, changes in memory and concentration abilities, flu-like symptoms, immune deficiency and the sudden onslaught of bacterial and viral illnesses may also be caused by a parasite infection. Weight loss, increased appetite, hemorrhoids, numb hands, bed wetting, depression, floaters in the eyes, arthritis-like symptoms and pain in the navel, back, thighs and shoulders may also find their root in parasites.

Some parasites may cause flu-like symptoms.
Some parasites may cause flu-like symptoms.

Simply having one or two of the above symptoms does not point to parasitic infection. However, those who experience any symptoms should consult with a doctor to determine the origin of their medical problem. If parasites exist in the body, the infection should be treated promptly, as symptoms can continue and infections can be contagious.

Discussion Comments

ysmina

I just learned that it's possible to have parasites in the eyes and floaters are the main symptom. I don't recommend looking at pictures of eye parasites though, it's a little disturbing. Floaters due to old age or cataracts are one thing, but if they occur at other times, it's a good idea to see a doctor!

SarahGen

I don't know if symptoms in animals and humans are the same. But when my cat had parasites, the only symptom she had was loss of appetite. We thought that she was not eating as much because of the hot weather. After she received her routine anti-parasitic injection, she started eating normally again. That's when we realized that she had been suffering from parasites. The poor thing. But she's fine now.

ZipLine

My mom is a nurse and she always says that there are three major signs to look for when it comes to a parasitic infection. These are diarrhea, change in appetite and weight loss.

I'm sure the symptoms also depend on the type of parasite that is present and how the body is reacting to it. But eating a lot or eating little, losing weight and experiencing changes in digestion are signs of a possible infection.

I asked my mom about constipation due to blockage too. But I guess that's something that happens much later when the parasites have increased in number and size. Constipation due to blockage is not going to happen in the beginning stages. And hopefully, one would notice that there is something wrong before the infection gets to that stage.

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    • Parasite symptoms can include hives.
      By: Jürgen Fälchle
      Parasite symptoms can include hives.
    • Tapeworms are likely the most notorious of parasitic worms.
      By: 3drenderings
      Tapeworms are likely the most notorious of parasitic worms.
    • Irritable bowel syndrome can be a direct result of parasites negatively effecting the intestines.
      By: joshya
      Irritable bowel syndrome can be a direct result of parasites negatively effecting the intestines.
    • Some parasites may cause flu-like symptoms.
      By: Halfpoint
      Some parasites may cause flu-like symptoms.
    • An untreated tapeworm or roundworm infection may result in malnutrition.
      By: poco_bw
      An untreated tapeworm or roundworm infection may result in malnutrition.
    • A parasitic infection may cause skin changes, such as a rash.
      By: jovanmandic
      A parasitic infection may cause skin changes, such as a rash.
    • Parasites may be found in undercooked meat.
      By: noppasit
      Parasites may be found in undercooked meat.
    • Some types of parasites cause floaters in the eyes.
      By: arztsamui
      Some types of parasites cause floaters in the eyes.