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Alergias, infecciones y salud urinaria

Parásitos

Parasites are organisms that live in a host, causing infections in the gut, blood, or skin.

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Dr. J. Vázquez

Dr. J. Vázquez

Médico de medicina general | REG: 282889782

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La Dra. Josefina Vázquez es una médica experimentada con más de tres años en medicina de emergencia, reanimación y transporte especializado.

Parasites

What Are Parasites & How Do They Affect the Body?

Parasites are organisms that live in or on a host, feeding on nutrients and causing health issues. Some parasites cause mild discomfort, while others lead to severe infections.

Common Types of Parasites:

  • Intestinal Parasites: Lombrices (e.g., roundworms, tapeworms, pinworms) and protozoa that infect the digestive tract.
  • Blood Parasites: Malaria and other vector-borne parasites spread through mosquito bites.
  • Skin Parasites: Lice, mites, or scabies that cause itching and irritation.

How Are Parasites Transmitted?

  • Contaminated food or water (undercooked meat, unwashed vegetables).
  • Insect bites (mosquitoes spreading malaria or other diseases).
  • Direct contact with infected soil or surfaces.
  • Poor hygiene or close contact with infected individuals.

Who Needs Parasite Treatment?

Treatment is recommended for individuals who:

  • Experience persistent digestive issues such as diarrhea, bloating, or stomach pain.
  • Have unexplained fatigue, weight loss, or nutrient deficiencies.
  • Develop skin rashes, itching, or visible worms in stool.
  • Are traveling to or returning from high-risk areas for malaria or parasitic infections.

Best Ways to Treat Parasitic Infections

Treatment depends on the type of parasite and severity of the infection. Medications, hygiene practices, and prevention strategies are key to eliminating parasites.

Medications for Parasitic Infections:
Home Remedies & Preventive Measures:
  • Wash hands regularly to prevent the spread of parasites.
  • Cook meat thoroughly to kill any parasites present in food.
  • Drink clean, filtered water to avoid contaminated sources.
  • Use insect repellent and mosquito nets in malaria-prone areas.
  • Practice good hygiene to prevent reinfection.

A well-managed parasite treatment plan can:

  • Eliminate infections and prevent further complications.
  • Restore digestive health and nutrient absorption.
  • Reduce symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue.
  • Lower the risk of reinfection with proper hygiene.

Important considerations to keep in mind include the following:

  • Early treatment is crucial to prevent serious complications.
  • Certain antiparasitic medications require multiple doses to fully clear the infection.
  • Travelers should take preventive malaria medication before visiting high-risk areas.
  • If symptoms persist despite treatment, consult a doctor for further testing.

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Get answers to common questions about Parasites

Common symptoms include diarrhea, bloating, stomach pain, fatigue, weight loss, itching, or in some cases visible worms in stool.
A doctor may order stool tests, blood tests, or imaging to detect parasites in the body.
Medications like Mebendazole or Vermox effectively treat worm infections, while Metronidazole is used for protozoal infections.
Yes, good hygiene, drinking clean water, cooking food properly, and using mosquito protection can lower the risk.
Treatment duration varies depending on the type of parasite. Some infections clear within a few days with medication, while others may require multiple doses over a few weeks. Proper hygiene and prevention help avoid reinfection.

Fuentes científicas