Giardiasis: Care Instructions

Overview

Giardiasis (say "jee-ar-DYE-uh-sus") is an infection of the intestines caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia. The illness is also called giardia (say "jee-AR-dee-uh").

Giardia can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, gas, and nausea. You may feel sick once and then get better. Or your symptoms may come and go for some time. Some children with giardia do not grow or gain weight normally. Sometimes giardia does not cause any symptoms.

You may become infected with giardia if you eat food or drink water that is tainted with human or animal waste. In the United States and Canada, you can get giardia by drinking untreated water from wells, streams, rivers, and lakes. You also can get giardia from close contact with someone who is infected, such as from working in a day care center or nursing home.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor prescribes medicine, take it as directed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Talk to your doctor if you are having problems with milk and milk products. Some people with giardia have trouble digesting milk products.
• If you have diarrhea, try eating small amounts of food when you feel like eating. But you need to take frequent sips of clear fluids like rehydration drinks to avoid dehydration.

To help prevent giardiasis

• Do not drink untreated or unpurified water. If you are camping or hiking, boil or purify water from lakes and streams before you drink it.
• When you travel in high-risk areas, drink bottled water and avoid raw fruits and vegetables. Do not drink beverages containing ice cubes.
• Wash your hands often to prevent getting giardia from an infected person. This is very important not only after you change diapers, use the toilet, or help someone else use the toilet, but also before you prepare food.