Giardia

Updated: 2023-10-17

Description

An infection of the intestines that is caused by a parasite.

Overview

Giardia infection is caused by a parasite that is found worldwide and is too small to be seen. The most common way to become infected is to swallow contaminated water.

Symptoms

Giardia symptoms can include stomach cramps, bloating, upset stomach, fatigue, weight loss, gas and bouts of watery diarrhea. But some people infected with giardia never get symptoms.

Treatments

Severe or long-lasting giardia infection is treated with antibiotic medicine. Often people get better on their own without any medicine.