Giardiasis Treatment - Medications, Natural Remedies, Herbs, Herbal Home Remedies

Are you seeking giardiasis treatment?

Giardiasis is an infection of the small intestines and caused by a single-celled organism called Giardia lamblia.

The giardia parasite is responsible, and people get this infection by swallowing the parasite's cyst, which is most often found in water contaminated by animal waste or other raw sewage. Giardiasis is found in about 3.5% of people in industrialized nations such as the US.

In other countries, up to 30% of the population can be infected. Many travelers to foreign countries complain of stomach troubles and diarrhea after coming in contact with giardia.

Worldwide, it is probably the most well known non-viral infection that causes diarrhea in humans. Also, there is a high infection rate among hikers and campers (US) in areas inhabited by wild animals that are infected with the parasite. There is also an increased prevalence among homosexual men.

The typical incubation period for infection is 9 to 15 days, with the acute stage beginning with a feeling of abdominal uneasiness followed closely by nausea. A low grade fever and / or chills may come next, followed by diarrhea, abdominal pain, and gas with an unpleasant odor and belching. This lasts anywhere from 3 to 4 days. Symptoms can last for months if left unnoticed.

Other common symptoms of giardiasis are bloating and vomiting, which can lead to weight loss, though the signs and symptoms do vary from person to person. Diarrhea can be mild, producing semi-solid stools, or it can be fairly intense. Typically, children are not affected as adults are, their infection developing asymptomatic infection.

Important aspects of giardiasis treatment include drinking fluids such as bottled water, diluted fruit juices, sports drinks, flat soda (7-Up, ginger ale), broth, some soups, or for children, Pedialyte. Take fluids in small amounts, frequently throughout the day. Avoid caffeine at this time. If unable to keep liquids down, suck on ice chips to keep hydrated.

Once the initial 12 hours has passed, bland foods can be added to the diet (once stools have begun to form), and should include such foods as potatoes, whole wheat noodles, brown rice, toast, sugarless cereals, crackers, and boiled or steamed vegetables. Avoid milk for several weeks, and also stay away from spicy, greasy, and fried foods for up to four weeks. These dietary tips complement giardiasis treatment.

Medications

Giardiasis is treated with anti-protozoal medicines that can kill the parasite. The type of medicine used for giardiasis treatment will depend on the infected person's age, or whether a pregnancy is involved. In severe cases, a physician can write a prescription for an antimicrobial medication.

Medications, such as Tinidazole (comes in tablets) and Nitazoxznide, are approved by the FDA. While Tinidazole has few side effects, Nitazoxanide may cause symptoms similar to the ones brought on by the parasite. Nitazoxanide comes in liquid form and is said to be safe for children, though it must be accompanied with food.

How about other medicines used for giardiasis treatment?

Another medication, Metronidazole, is said to be 80 to 95% effective, but it has side effects -nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, headache, or a metallic taste in the mouth. Also, the urine may turn dark or reddish-brown. The effects of metronidazole on pregnant women or the fetus are said to be minimal with this drug, occurring most often in the first trimester only (in any case, pregnant ladies should be very careful - consult your physician).

Herbs, Home Remedies and Natural Treatments

Herbs and herbal remedies that have been proven successful for giardiasis treatment are the tinctures of barberry or goldenseal, garlic oil, and Oregon grape root.

A tried and true home remedy for giardiasis treatment can be made by mixing 1 part each of garlic and horseradish (both grated), and adding to 1/2 liter of vodka (per each 50g herb mixture). This must be kept at room temperature in a dark room for 10 days and shaken regularly. Filter extract before taking 1 tablespoon 2 to 3 times daily, 20 to 30 minutes before eating. Continue as long as you are displaying symptoms.

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