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Parasites: Diagnose First, Treat Second
- Stephanie Ray
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Stephanie Ray, RN, BSN
Introduction
Parasites are organisms that depend on a host (another organism) for survival. They feed, grow, or multiply in a way that harms their host, but parasites need hosts for survival. Parasites rarely kill their host, but they often carry diseases that can be
life-threatening.
Parasitic infections significantly impact public health in the tropics, and subtropics as well as in more temperate climates. Many people may not notice they have an infection because they have few symptoms, some may become severely ill.
There are three main classes of parasites that can cause disease in humans: protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites. Prevention and awareness of your surroundings play a key role in avoiding infection, and the treatment of infection depends on the kind of parasite.
Common Types of Parasites in Humans
Helminths (Parasitic worms): e.g., Trematodes (Flukes), Cestodes (Tapeworms) Nematodes (Roundworms)
Parasitic worms that live in your gastrointestinal tract. They are visible to the naked eye when in their adult stage. They are spread through contaminated water, food, and undercooked meat.
Protozoans: e.g., Plasmodium (malaria), Amoebas, Giardia
One-celled organisms that cannot be seen without a microscope. They may live in your blood, intestines, or tissues. They may spread through contaminated water, person-to-person contact, or through a bite from a vector (organisms that carry diseases between animals and humans, usually through the blood).
Ectoparasites (Skin parasites): e.g., lice, scabies mites, fleas
They live on the outside of the host. They carry diseases between animals and humans (vector).
Common Anti-Parasitic Medications
Treatment depends on the kind of parasitic infection.
Albendazole / Mebendazole – for worms
Metronidazole / Tinidazole – for protozoa
Ivermectin / Permethrin – for lice, scabies
Praziquantel – for tapeworms and flukes
Shampoos
Ointments
Each targets specific parasites and must be used correctly.
Why You Should Not Self-Treat Without a Diagnosis
Unnecessary use can lead to:
Drug resistance: Misusing or overusing these drugs can contribute to the development of drug resistance, making future treatments less effective.
Side effects:
Common Side effects: often include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
Serious side effects: Some medications can cause more serious problems like kidney damage, behavioral changes, and nervous system problems.
Masking serious conditions: self-treating with antiparasitics without a confirmed diagnosis can delay proper medical care for the actual underlying condition.
Anti-parasitics do not work as general cleanses or detoxes — this is a harmful myth.
How to Check for Parasitic Infections
See a healthcare provider for:
Stool sample tests (ova and parasites)
Blood tests (for malaria, toxoplasmosis, etc.)
Skin scrapings (for lice/scabies)
Imaging (for cysts or organ involvement)
Symptoms that may prompt testing:
Persistent diarrhea
Unexplained weight loss
Itching or rashes
Abdominal pain
Fatigue or anemia
Prevention
Food sources of parasites:
Raw/undercooked meat, including fish
Raw or unwashed fruit and vegetables
Raw aquatic plants (like watercress)
Unpasteurized milk and juices
Common causes of parasitic infections:
Spending time in areas with known parasites
Contaminated water, foods, soil, blood, or feces
Not washing your hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom or handling food.
Drink safe water and wash fruits/vegetables.
Avoid walking barefoot in areas with poor sanitation.
Travelers: take recommended preventive meds and food precautions.
Conclusion
Parasites cause a tremendous burden of disease all over the world- prevention is key to avoiding infection.
Anti-parasitic drugs are important, but only when used appropriately. Their misuse or use without proper medical guidance can pose significant health risks.
Testing is key to getting the right diagnosis and avoiding unnecessary medication. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine if you have a parasitic infection and to discuss the appropriate course of treatment.
Sources:
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
