Parasites are host-dependent organisms and derive nourishment and protection from the host’s body. They can be transmitted from animals to humans and from humans to humans as well. A large number of parasites cause foodborne or waterborne illness. A study shows that more than 137,000 deaths yearly are responsible due to foodborne hazards. They live and reproduce within the tissues and infect the organs of humans or animals. These are some of the parasites that can cause food poisoning in humans. They are:
Toxoplasma Gondii: It is a protozoan parasite and causes toxoplasmosis in warm-blooded animals, including humans. Humans can be infected by this parasite by consuming food or water contaminated with faecal material.
GiardiaLamlia: It is a tiny germ-like parasite that usually causes diarrhoea. Giardia is mostly found on surfaces or in the soil, water, and food. A person can get giardiasis if they swallow anything that has been infected with the faeces of an infected animal or human.
Tapeworms: Tapeworms are dependent on the intestines of the host and cause tapeworm infection. They can also cause a number of digestive problems in humans, especially food poisoning and abdominal pain.
Cryptosporidium: It is a microscopic parasite and causes a number of diarrheal diseases, including cryptosporidiosis.
Ascaris Lumbricoides: This parasite has the ability to block a portion of the intestines by multiplying and creating a mass of worms. Moreover, it can cause severe food poisoning, along with abdominal cramping.
The signs and symptoms of food poisoning caused by a parasite usually occur within several hours or a day or two after consuming the infected food or water. The most common symptoms include:
If you are experiencing some severe symptoms for a long period of time, consult your doctor immediately, as it can be life-threatening. These symptoms are:
Parasites are everywhere in our surroundings and are harmful to our health. However, if we consume anything contaminated with any faecal material of an infected living being, the higher the chances of getting the same infection. Raw or uncooked foods are also the main cause of food poisoning, as they don’t go through the cooking process.
Most people with food poisoning due to parasites recover independently, but some can become gravely ill due to poor immunity. People older than 65, pregnant women, children and dehydrated individuals have a greater chance of becoming infected after consuming contaminated food or water.
Doctors usually diagnose food poisoning based on the symptoms a person is experiencing. Mild symptoms that last for a short period of time won’t require any tests or further diagnoses. But if your symptoms are severe, a physical examination, along with stool and blood tests, are typically requested by the doctor to diagnose the severity of food poisoning and devise a treatment plan.
Make sure to treat the parasitic infection immediately, a delay in treatment can lead to meningitis, kidney damage, or even brain or nerve damage.
Food poisoning can be treated easily. All you need to do is to stay hydrated, take over-the-counter medications after informing the doctor, and rest as much as you can. Some antiparasitic treatments can also help recover from it quickly, for instance, nitazoxanide, albendazole, mebendazole, and praziquantel.
Make sure to avoid consuming food and water that may look, taste, or smell unclean or contaminated. While you are suffering from food poisoning, avoid all dairy products and fatty foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol, to prevent further complications. Increase the frequency of handwashing and cleaning of surfaces.