3 Ways to Identify the Symptoms of Parasites

1. Pay Attention to Your Body

Most people with an intestinal parasite have physical symptoms, some of which seem harmless. For example, you may have a parasitic worm in your bile duct that can lead to constipation. One of the easiest ways to tell if you have a parasite is to look for a change in your skin. Some intestinal parasites irritate the skin, causing rashes, sores and hives. Take note if you experience changes in your health, such as your ability to sleep through the night or pay attention during the day.

2. Visit a Doctor

The most accurate way to identify parasite symptoms is to visit your doctor who will check your symptoms and run tests if necessary. It's most likely that you will have pain, diarrhea or bloating if you have an intestinal parasite, but there are other symptoms that can indicate a parasite such as fever, nausea, vomiting, diminished sex drive and compulsive itching. The only way to be sure about your condition is to have a medical professional examine you.

3. Run Your Own Test

If you are really worried about parasites and can't contact a doctor, you may be able to run a home test. For example, if you think you have pinworms, you can rub a tape-covered tongue depressor around your anus to bring to your doctor. You may be able to see the eggs on the tape yourself, but a laboratory should run a test to be sure. The presence of a parasite may be obvious if your skin is distorted. For example, if you have a target-like rash on your skin, a tick ridden with Lyme disease may have bitten you. You also may have excessive itching and find small bugs in your hair if you have lice.