Stomach parasites can cause severe discomfort and even death if not treated. There are many different types of stomach parasites which cause chloride and sodium loss in the body. Symptoms of certain parasites may be subtle; however, other parasites can show acute, rapid symptoms. Stomach parasites make digesting certain foods difficult, with symptoms such as anemia, constipation, nervousness, diarrhea, fever, anemia and fatigue, to name a few.
Giardia Lamlia
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Giardia lamlia is the most frequent cause of waterborne disease among humans. Giardia lamlia can be contracted through contaminated foods or recreational water activities, and can cause severe diarrhea. Giardia lamlia can be contracted due to poor hygiene, venereal transmission and even from pets. Giardia lamlia can also be contracted from surfaces that have been in contact with the stool of an infected person. Community pools are a common breeding ground for the parasite, and it can also be transmitted through dirty diapers of infected children.
Cryptospordium
Cryptosporidium is a single-celled parasite that causes severe gastrointestinal problems. According to MayoClinic.com, cryptosporidium parasites enter the body to begin their life-cycle by burrowing into the walls of the intestines. The main symptom of cryptosporidiosis, the name for the infection with cryptosporidium, is severe diarrhea that can lead to dehydration, weight loss and vomiting. According to MedHelp, cryptosporidiosis is more common among those with weakened immune systems, such as AIDS and cancer patients, and transplant recipients. Cryptosporidiosis, when left untreated, can be life-threatening.
Helminths
Helminths are multi-celled worms. Some of the most common helminths are pinworms, tapeworms and roundworms. Helminths cannot multiply when in adult form. They live in animals and humans, and can be transmitted through food, water and feces that have been contaminated. Like most stomach parasites, they live in intestinal tracts where they reproduce more eggs that hatch and begin the life-cycle. The presence of helmiths compromises the immune system by draining vital vitamins and minerals, causing it to work harder to protect the body. Certain drugs can kill the parasites by preventing their reproduction.
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