Doctor's Notes on Giardiasis
Giardiasis is the most common cause of parasitic gastrointestinal disease. It is caused by an infection of the small intestine with the parasite Giardia duodenalis, also known as Giardia lamblia and Giardia intestinalis. The parasite is typically acquired in situations where there is inadequate sanitation or treatment of drinking water. Giardiasis is a cause of so-called travelers' diarrhea. It can also be spread in any situation where fecal-oral contamination is likely, such as day-care centers.
The most common symptoms of giardiasis are diarrhea and abdominal pain. The stools may be foul-smelling and float. Other possible associated symptoms and signs can include
- bloating,
- fatigue,
- malaise,
- nausea,
- weight loss, and
- vomiting.
These symptoms can vary in intensity from mild to severe.
What Is the Treatment of Giardiasis?
Many people with giardia may not need treatment if they are not likely to spread the infection, and the condition may improve over a few weeks. In other cases, oral medications to treat the parasite are necessary for the treatment of giardiasis. Medications can include metronidazole, nitazoxanide, and tinidazole. In some cases, the condition recurs after medical treatment, and treatment with a different medication, a longer course of treatment, or treatment with a combination of medications may be required.
Pancreatitis : Test Your Medical IQ Quiz

Pancreatitis is inflammation of an organ in the abdomen called the pancreas.
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Dehydration in Adults
Dehydration occurs when the loss of body fluids (mostly water), exceeds the amount that is taken in. Causes of dehydration include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, diseases (diabetes), impaired ability to drink, lack of access to safe drinking water, and injuries to the skin. Common symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, dry skin, headache, low urine output, tiredness, sleepiness, dry mouth, and increased thirst. Treatment of dehydration depends upon the severity of the condition. -
Dehydration in Children
Dehydration in children can result from not drinking enough liquids, vomiting, diarrhea, or combination of these conditions. Causes of dehydration in children include viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections, diabetes, and increased sweating, and others. Symptoms include sunken eyes, decrease in urination, no tears when crying, dry mouth, lethargy, and irritability. Treatment at home includes proper fluid replacement. Some cases of dehydration are so severe they may require hospitalization. -
Diarrhea
Diarrhea can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, parasites, intestinal diseases or conditions, reactions to medications, and food intolerance or allergies. Symptoms of diarrhea include watery stools, abdominal cramping, fever, and dehydration. Most cases of diarrhea can be treated at home. In some cases (in the elderly, small children, or those with severe or chronic medical conditions) may need to be hospitalized due to dehydration. -
Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) Symptoms, Transmission, Contagious, and Cure
Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is most commonly caused by viruses and bacteria like Norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus, parvovirus, and Astrovirus. Bacteria causing gastroenteritis include Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, salmonella, shigella, Campylobacter, and C. difficile. Other causes may be due to chemical toxins. The stomach flu is contagious because it caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. You get the stomach flu from contaminated food and drinks from poor hygiene (not washing your hands after using the toilet). Common symptoms of the stomach flu are; mild to moderate diarrhea, abdominal cramping, abdominal bloating,and low grade fever. Home remedies to treat the stomach flu include rest and hydration to avoid dehydration. Over-the-counter or prescription medicine may be necessary to treat the signs and symptoms of the stomach flu (gastroenteritis). The stomach flu can be prevented by using proper hygiene when using the bathroom. -
Traveler's Diarrhea
Causes of traveler's diarrhea include bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Traveler's diarrhea is contagious, with symptoms including loose or watery stools, abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, vomiting, fever, headache, and bloody stools. Treatment for traveler's diarrhea is generally with OTC medication.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.