Giardiasis (giardia)

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Giardiasis (giardia)

Giardiasis (also called giardia) is an illness caused by infection with the parasite Giardia lamblia, also known as Giardia intestinalis. Giardiasis is usually caused by drinking water contaminated with the parasite; in the United States, G. lamblia is most often found in untreated streams, rivers, and lakes.

Symptoms of giardiasis include diarrhea, gas, abdominal cramps, and nausea. In some people, giardiasis does not cause any symptoms. In others, the symptoms may recur periodically.

Infection with the parasite can be prevented by hand-washing and by treating water taken from surface sources before drinking it or using it to cook, wash dishes, or brush teeth.

Symptoms of giardiasis may go away on their own. However, medication, usually metronidazole, can relieve the discomfort and prevent the spread of the illness.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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