What Is Blastocystis Hominis Infection ?
Blastocystis hominis is a minute parasite that is found in the feces of individuals with abdominal pain, diarrhea or some other gastrointestinal concerns. At times, it can also be found in the feces of healthy individuals. Infection with the parasite is known as blastocystosis. Researchers are working hard to determine what role the parasite plays, besides sourcing the infection. In few instances, the parasite lives in the digestive tract and causes no harm at all.
Moreover, there is no proven treatment for the infection, whilst it often clears up after completing its due course. Though, in case, the symptoms fail to improve, then the health care provider can suggest trying drugs.
What Are The Symptoms Of Blastocystis Hominis Infection ?
Symptoms linked with the infection are as follow:
- Bloating.
- Abdominal cramps.
- Nausea.
- Diarrhea.
- Flatulence.
- Fatigue.
- Weight loss.
- Loss of appetite.
- Anal itching.
When Is The Right Time To Seek Medical Assistance ?
It is better to consult a health care provider in case the indications, for example cramps or diarrhea persists for three days or longer.
What Causes Blastocystis Hominis Infection ?
The microscopic parasite, blastocystis is a protozoan, a single-celled organism. Several protozoans reside in the gastrointestinal tract, few of which are non dangerous or even helpful for the body, while others trigger illness.
As far as blastocystis is concerned, the fact is vague that whether it is responsible for triggering the disease or not. While many individuals who carry the parasite do not develop any indication, yet the presence of blastocystic is spotted with some other organisms in people who develop the symptoms. This is the reason why experts are confused that whether the parasite is actually the trigger of blastocystis hominis infection or not.
What Are The Risk Factors Of Blastocystis Hominis Infection ?
Anyone can develop the infection. Though, traveling to a place with poor sanitation condition can raise your chances of contracting the infection.
What Are The Complications Of Blastocystis Hominis Infection ?
In case of having diarrhea linked with blastocystis, then it is better to limit yourself from others. Indeed, an individual with diarrhea lose significant minerals, salts and fluids, which can end up in dehydration. Specifically, children are more prone to become dehydrated.
How Is Blastocystis Hominis Infection Diagnosis ?
The reason for diarrhea can be hard to detect, despite the presence of blastocystis is spotted through a fecal exam. Clearly, its presence is not the evidence for sourcing the signs.
The health care provider will conduct a physical examination of the patient and will need his or her:
- Medical history.
- Details regarding the recent activities, for example traveling.
Several lab tests are useful in detecting the parasitic diseases, as well as other noninfectious triggers of gastrointestinal signs:
- Endoscopy.
- Stool exam.
- Blood test.
How Is Blastocystis Hominis Infection Treatment ?
For infections that do not source any signs, can be left untreated. Such a case improves on its own within some days. For infections that roots symptoms, the doctor can prescribe drugs.
By : Natural Health News
