General Information About Giardia
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is an infectious disease common worldwide, caused by a single-celled intestinal parasite (Giardia intestinalis) that disrupts absorption in the small intestine.
The parasite's cysts (eggs) enter the environment through feces. In nature, it passes to humans by drinking contaminated well/lake water containing these cysts—which can even survive chlorination—or through unwashed food, or contact with dirty hands.
Starting 1-2 weeks after infection, symptoms include watery, excessively foul-smelling and greasy diarrhea, passing severe gas, stomach bloating, abdominal cramps, and nausea. Fever is rarely seen.
Yes. If no intervention is made, the parasites can live in the intestines for months. During this time, by impairing the absorption of fats and vitamins, it can lead to involuntary weight loss and growth retardation in children.
Due to the structure of the parasite, it does not cause blood in the stool. A definitive diagnosis is made by examining a stool (feces) sample taken from a patient with symptoms under a microscope and seeing the parasite cysts (or antigens).
Once diagnosed, its treatment is quite simple. With specific antiparasitic medications (Metronidazole, etc.) prescribed by a physician, the parasites are completely cleared within 5-7 days, and the disease is cured.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
