Parasites are organisms that feed off of other organisms. Intestinal parasites live in the digestive track. Many are acquired through fecal-oral transmission. Fecal material containing the parasitic organism is inadvertently ingested and the parasite begins to grow somewhere inside the intestines. Daycare centers, swimming pools, contaminated food and untreated water supplies are often associated with the spread of parasites in children causing some children tp experience complications, like dehydration and weight loss, with certain types of parasites. Consult your health care provider if your child has symptoms of an intestinal parasite.
Cryptosporidium
Cryptosporidiosis is the most frequent cause of recreational water-related disease outbreaks in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Resistant to many chlorine-based disinfectants and not easily removed by filters, this hardy one-celled parasite can be difficult to eradicate. While accidentally swallowing contaminated swimming water is a frequent source of infection, exposure also occurs by ingesting contaminated food and water, along with poor sanitation and hygiene practices. The presenting symptom of Cryptosporidium infection is generally watery diarrhea. Vomiting, fever and stomach cramps may also be present. Symptoms range from mild to severe and typically disappear without medical attention within two weeks. If your child has signs of dehydration or his watery diarrhea does not improve within a few days, consult your health care provider.
Giardia Lamblia
Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia. It is the second most common parasite infection in the United States, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Ingesting untreated water from rivers, lakes and ponds is a frequent cause of Giardia infection, resulting in the nickname "backpacker's diarrhea." Giardia can also be transmitted through contaminated food and poor sanitation and hygiene practices. Presenting symptoms are generally abdominal pain and watery, foul-smelling diarrhea. Poor appetite and excessive gas may also be present. Symptoms begin 1 to 2 weeks after exposure. When treated, symptoms usually resolve within 5 to 7 days. Untreated Giardia can last about 4 to 6 weeks. Some children may harbor the Giardia parasite but have no outward symptoms. Treatment isn't necessary for children who don't have symptoms.
Pinworm
Pinworms, also known as Enterobius vermicularis, are the most common type of parasitic worms that infest children. These gray, thread-like worms measure 1/4 to 1/2 inch long and live in the large intestine. At night the female pinworms travel to the perineum---the anal and vaginal area---to lay eggs. Areas where the eggs are deposited often become irritated and itch. Pinworms are spread when an infected child scratches his perineum, contaminating his hands and fingers with eggs. The child then spreads the eggs by touching household furnishings and other shared items. However, skin irritation and itching are the only health concerns associated with pinworms and the condition is easily treated with prescription medication. Without medication, a pinworm infection lasts about 4 to 6 weeks, however, without proper sanitation and hygiene, reinfection can occur.
