Parasites are microscopic or miniature creatures that feed by living in or on another organism, often causing damage to the host organism. Parasites can be found in a variety of organisms, spanning different species, including humans, animals and plants. Parasites often steal nutrients from the organism they infect and this can negatively affect the health of the organism. The causes of parasites are often due to environmental factors, non-compliance with personal hygiene rules or consumption of infected water and food.
Parasites can cause imbalances in ecosystems and spread many diseases. Parasite infections in humans and other living organisms can be controlled through proper hygiene and sanitation measures, vaccination and treatment methods such as antiparasitic drugs.
How are parasites transmitted?
Parasites are usually transmitted through infected water, soil, food or vector organisms. Transmission methods can vary depending on the type of parasite and the organism it infects. Some of the common routes of transmission are:
Water and Foodborne Transmission: A common route of transmission is through parasite eggs or cysts from water sources or contaminated food. Such parasites usually enter the digestive tract and can cause infection in the intestines.
Transmission through Vectors: Many parasites are transmitted through vector organisms. For example, vectors such as mosquitoes or ticks can carry parasites and transmit them to humans or animals. This is typical for parasites that cause diseases such as malaria and Lyme disease.
Transmission through soil: Parasite cysts or larvae in soil can be transmitted to humans or animals through contact. This can happen through contact with bare hands or through growing and consuming food with contaminated soil.
Sexual Transmission: Some types of parasites can be transmitted during sexual contact. This is a particularly common mode of transmission among waterborne parasites.
Transmission through Direct Contact: Parasites can be transmitted by direct contact through cuts or wounds on the skin. For example, infections caused by larvae living under the skin can occur in this way.
What do parasites do in the body?
Once in the body, parasites can have various effects and cause health problems. The effects of parasites on the body can vary depending on the type of parasite, the site of infection and the health status of the host organism. Here are the effects that parasites can have on the body in general:
- Many parasites can settle in the intestinal tract and cause diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain and digestive problems. Intestinal parasites are usually transmitted through food or water.
- Parasites can interfere with the host organism's absorption of nutrients. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and weakness.
- Parasite infections can affect the immune system response. The immune system can react against parasites, causing inflammation and other defense mechanisms.
- Some parasites can damage cells and cause damage to organs. In particular, parasites that settle in internal organs can impair organ function.
- Some blood parasites can affect the blood cells of the host organism, leading to anemia. This can lead to insufficient oxygen transport and weakness.
- Some parasites can affect the nervous system and cause neurological symptoms. These symptoms can include headaches, muscle aches, numbness and imbalance.
- Some parasites can suppress the immune system response, which can make the body more vulnerable to other infections.
What are the symptoms of parasites in the body?
Symptoms associated with parasite infections in the body can vary depending on the type of parasite, the site of infection and the health status of the infected organism. However, in general, symptoms of parasite infection in the body may include
- Diarrhea,
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain and cramps,
- Gas and bloating,
- Decreased energy levels and fatigue,
- Weight loss,
- Nausea and vomiting,
- Skin rashes or breathing problems,
- Difficulty falling asleep or insomnia,
- Muscle aches, joint pains or general body aches,
- Some parasitic infections can raise body temperature and cause chills with fever.
How to recognize a parasite?
Parasite infections usually present with symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, loss of appetite and weakness. If there are suspicious symptoms, it is important to talk to a health professional. The doctor will perform a physical examination to assess health history, travel history and symptoms. Laboratory tests are usually performed on stool, blood or urine samples to confirm parasite infections.
Imaging tests can be used to assess the damage caused by parasites. Diagnosed infections are usually treated with antiparasitic drugs, but the course of treatment can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. It is important to follow the doctor's recommendations for correct diagnosis and treatment.
How are parasites treated?
Parasitic infections are usually treated using antiparasitic drugs. These drugs are effective against specific parasite species, and the duration and dosage of treatment may vary depending on the type of infection. Antibiotics can be used for parasitic infections of bacterial origin, especially those caused by bacterial parasites in the intestines. If the infections cause inflammation, anti-inflammatory drugs may also be included in the treatment plan.
Supportive therapies may be used to relieve symptoms and prevent dehydration. The course of treatment is determined depending on the patient's health history, symptoms and the type of infection. The use of antiparasitic drugs usually continues for a certain period of time, with follow-up tests after completion. It is important to consult a doctor in case of symptoms or health problems after treatment.
What are the ways to prevent parasites?
There are several preventive measures that can be taken to prevent parasite infections:
- Drinking clean and safe water, especially when traveling, is important to prevent parasite transmission. If tap water is not safe, boiled or purified water should be used.
- Washing food cleanly and cooking it correctly prevents parasites from being transmitted through food. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, seafood and eggs.
- Hands play an important role in the transmission of parasites. It is important to wash hands after using the toilet, after contact with animals and before preparing food.
- Practicing adequate personal hygiene can prevent the transmission of parasites through the skin. It is important to wear clean clothes and shower regularly.
- Finding out about the parasite risks of the destination and getting the necessary vaccinations are among the precautions that can be taken before traveling.
- Vectors (e.g. mosquitoes) have a high potential to carry parasites. Therefore, pest control and taking appropriate protective measures can reduce parasite transmission.
- Attention should be paid to the cleanliness of swimming pools and swimming areas in natural waters. It is important to follow hygiene rules to protect against parasite transmission from these areas.