Five warning signs you could have 'intestinal parasites'
People who suffer from abdominal pain and diarrhoea could have intestinal parasites living inside their gut, a doctor has warned.
According to Sightsavers, the worm-like parasites live inside the digestive system and feed off nutrients from their host, causing the infected person to become malnourished and susceptible to disease and chronic illness.
There are a number of ways parasites can enter the body, including poor hygiene and not washing hands properly after using the bathroom. They can also be caused by contaminated fruits and vegetables, or eating meat that hasn't been cooked thoroughly.
Speaking to the MailOnline, Doctor Sara Mesilhy, a gastroenterologist with the Royal College of Physicians UK, highlighted the five most common symptoms of intestinal parasites. From abdominal pain to feeling hungry after eating, here's everything you need to know about the debilitating condition.
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Intestinal parasitesbe can also be a result of not washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Digestive issues and weight loss
Parasites, which are commonly found on the intestinal wall, can damage the intestines and cause issues with digestion. Consequently, an infected person may suffer from abdominal pain, malnutrition and diarrhoea. This can lead to weight loss, which can further be exacerbated by parasites consuming nutrients from the food eaten by the host.
Hunger after meals
People with the condition may continue to feel hungry after eating, as parasites feed on the nutrients from the food consumed. What’s more, some parasites can create substances that interfere with signals linked to appetite and metabolism.
They can also damage the lining of the digestive system, reducing nutrient absorption and causing malnutrition.
Anaemia
The Mayo Clinic defines anaemia as a condition in which you lack enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. This can make you feel tired and weak.
Some parasites, such as hookworms, attach onto the lining of the small intestine and suck the blood of their host, resulting in blood loss and anaemia. Others consume the iron from the host, which is essential to produce red blood cells.
Certain parasites, such as Plasmodium, which causes malaria, can destroy red blood cells directly, again causing anaemia.
Itchiness
The doctor explained how parasites can cause itchiness and discomfort in a number of ways. Firstly, pinworms lay eggs around the anus which causes itching and heightens the chance of getting infected again.
While others can release toxins that trigger allergic reactions and skin problems such as hives and eczema, leading to itching.
Pinworms lay eggs around the anus which causes itching (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Muscle and joint pain
An infected person may experience muscle and joint pain as a result of inflammation. Parasites can also move to the muscles causing direct damage. Muscle and joint pain can also be linked to anaemia, due to reduced oxygen supply.
Dr Mesilhy advised: “If you suspect you have a parasitic infection a medical professional can perform tests to confirm the type of parasite and provide appropriate treatment.
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“Treatment options for intestinal parasites depend on the type of parasite and the severity of the infection but commonly prescribed medications include albendazole, mebendazole, praziquantel, and metronidazole, among others."
She added: “My main advice is don’t ignore any symptoms as they may lead to chronic health problems, such as anaemia, chronic fatigue syndrome, joint problems, and fever.”
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