A PARASITIC GUT INFECTION FROM CONTAMINATED WATER
Giardiasis
A parasitic infection of the small intestine caused by Giardia, contracted from contaminated water, causing diarrhoea, bloating, cramps and weight loss. Treatable with short-course medication.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Giardiasis
Giardiasis is a parasitic infection of the small intestine caused by Giardia lamblia, contracted mainly through contaminated drinking water, but also through poorly washed food or direct person-to-person contact in unhygienic conditions. The illness typically presents with loose, foul-smelling stools, bloating, abdominal cramps, gas, nausea and weight loss. Some patients have only mild symptoms or are asymptomatic carriers, while others develop persistent or recurring diarrhoea. Children, travellers, those in institutional settings and patients with weakened immunity are at higher risk. A short course of targeted anti-parasitic medication, along with hygiene measures, leads to full recovery in most cases. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides accurate diagnosis and complete treatment at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Drinking water contaminated with Giardia cysts
- Eating food prepared with contaminated water or by infected handlers
- Poor sanitation and inadequate hand hygiene
- Close contact in households, day-care centres or institutions
- Travel to areas with poor water quality
- Swallowing untreated water from lakes, rivers or swimming pools
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Stool examination for Giardia cysts or antigen testing
Short-course targeted anti-parasitic medication
May persist or recur if untreated
Close contacts may need to be evaluated and treated
Safe drinking water, hand hygiene and good food handling
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Short-Course Anti-Parasitic Therapy
The most effective treatment for giardiasis is a short course of targeted anti-parasitic medication, combined with attention to hydration and hygiene. Treatment of household contacts and food and water safety measures help prevent re-infection.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms and possible exposure, examines the patient and orders stool tests to confirm the diagnosis.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created based on the severity of symptoms, age of patient and any household considerations.
- 3
Medical Management
Short-course anti-parasitic therapy, hydration, and symptom relief, along with hygiene counselling for the patient and family.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up stool testing in selected cases, treatment of household contacts where indicated and ongoing prevention guidance.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Targeted Anti-Parasitic Therapy
A short course of effective medication is used to clear Giardia from the small intestine.
Hydration
Adequate oral fluids, and intravenous fluids if needed, prevent and correct dehydration caused by diarrhoea.
Treating Household Contacts
Family members with symptoms or repeated exposure may need evaluation and treatment to prevent re-infection.
Hygiene Counselling
Structured guidance on hand hygiene, safe water and food preparation reduces the risk of household and community spread.
Follow-up Stool Testing
Repeat stool testing is advised in selected patients to confirm the parasite has been fully cleared.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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