Other conditions with symptoms similar to giardiasis

Content provided by Healthwise

Some common symptoms of giardiasis are also found in other diseases.

Infections of the digestive tract may include:

Bacterial infections with salmonella, E. coli, campylobacter, staphylococcus, or shigella. Symptoms of infection with these organisms generally do not last as long as those caused by Giardia lamblia.
Viral infections. Symptoms of infection with viruses generally do not last as long as those caused by Giardia lamblia.
Other parasites such as cryptosporidium, cyclospora, or Dientamoeba fragilis. Symptoms caused by infection with these organisms last as long or longer than those caused by G. lamblia.
Appendicitis.

Problems with digestion that can cause giardiasis-like symptoms include:

Lactose intolerance, which causes symptoms when you drink milk or eat dairy products.
Irritable bowel syndrome, which causes symptoms that come and go.
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis).
Celiac sprue (also called celiac disease or nontropical sprue).

Credits

Author	Colleen Cronin
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Michele Cronen
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	W. David Colby, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease
Last Updated	October 19, 2005

Last updated:	October 19, 2005
Author:	Colleen Cronin
Reviewed By:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, W. David Colby, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.