39 Dryburgh Road, London SW15 1BN

Giardia

• Lactose intolerance - the inability to digest milk sugars properly- is a problem that may persist long after the infection has cleared leading to malabsorption and weight loss.
• Giardia is one of the most common waterborne infections. The parasites are found in streams, lakes and sometimes in the water supplies, swimming pools and spas. It can also be transmitted through food and person-to-person contact.
• We should all be more aware of the symptoms, risks and prevention of this parasitic infection, which can be confused with food poisoning.
• Symptoms: (occur usually 7 - 14 days after infection)
• • Foul smelling water diarrhoea that sometimes can alternate with greasy (that tend to float) stools
• • Abdominal cramps
• • Bloating, belching and wind
• • Nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss
• • Fatigue
• Possible complications are dehydration, failure to thrive, lactose intolerance and skin rash.
• Infections usually clear up within six weeks, but people may have recurrent episodes or have intestinal problems long after the parasites are gone. Prevention is the best defence. Some people can be carriers of the infection, but remain free of symptoms.
• The internet is a good source to find out how you get Giadia, risk factors, prevention, when to go to your doctor, treatment, etc. One of the more informative websites is www.mayoclinic.com.