That lingering stomach illness might be more than just a bug. Don't let an intestinal parasite disrupt your life. Understanding the signs of Cyclosporiasis is crucial for a swift diagnosis and recovery. Get the facts you need to protect your gut health.
What are the main causes of Cyclosporiasis?
- This illness is caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the microscopic Cyclospora parasite, often from an outbreak food source like fresh produce.
- People get Cyclosporiasis by consuming fruits like berries or leafy greens that were grown or washed in contaminated water and served raw.
- The infection is not typically contagious from person to person because the parasite needs time outside the body to become infectious.
Key symptoms of Cyclosporiasis to watch for
- The most common Cyclosporiasis symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, and increased gas.
- Sufferers often experience prolonged fatigue, nausea, and low-grade fever, with symptoms sometimes seeming to improve and then return again.
- If left untreated, symptoms can last for weeks or months, potentially leading to long term effects like malabsorption and chronic fatigue.
How can you prevent Cyclosporiasis effectively?
- The best prevention of Cyclosporiasis involves avoiding food and water that may be contaminated, especially when traveling to endemic regions.
- Thoroughly wash all fresh fruits and vegetables with safe, clean water before eating them, though this may not entirely eliminate the risk.
- If you develop symptoms, a proper diagnosis of Cyclosporiasis via a stool sample is needed to get the correct treatment and prevent complications.
>>> Details at: Campylobacteriosis: A Common Cause of Diarrhea
Microscopic images of Cyclosporiasis
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Cyclosporiasis is a treatable condition, but a correct diagnosis is essential for effective care. If you experience persistent diarrhea after eating fresh produce, consult a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and get tested for the Cyclospora parasite.
>>> Understand more about: Cryptosporidiosis: A Guide to this Waterborne Illness
