All You Need To Know About Parasite Prevention and Elimination

Although it may not be the most pleasant topic of discussion, it’s essential for our health to understand the various types of parasites and the different types of effects they may be having on our bodies. There are several different types of parasites and several different ways those different types can manifest in our health. While parasites themselves are not diseases, they can spread disease in addition to triggering symptoms in our bodies. The three main types of parasites are:

• Protozoa- These are single-celled organisms that can multiply in humans. They typically spread through contaminated food and water, insect bites, and contact with an infected person. They can cause symptoms ranging from diarrhea and intestinal stress all the way up to respiratory and nervous system problems.
• Helminths- These are typically thought of as the “worm” parasites. Things like flatworms, tapeworms, and roundworms all fall into this category. The most common form of damage the helminths cause is blockage of internal organs. These blockages in the intestines, liver and other organs can wreak havoc on the systems of the body and seriously inhibit proper function.
• Ectoparasites- These are parasites that live on the outside of the body such as fleas, ticks, and lice. While these may be more commonly known, their effects can be much more serious than you may think. The intestinal and nervous system issues caused by these ectoparasites can have long-lasting, debilitating effects. Just because a parasite is outside, doesn’t mean it’s not doing internal damage.

Now that we’ve covered the different types of parasites, we need to take a look at the different signs and symptoms of parasitic infection. These include:

• Skin bumps or rashes
• Weight loss, increased appetite, or both
• Neurological disorders
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Sleeping problems
• Anemia
• Trouble breathing
• Aches and pains
• Allergies
• Weakness and general unwell feeling
• Fever

So now that we know what they are and what can we do, what can we do to prevent them?

• Know Your Parasites- Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your health. Knowing which parasites are common in your area or areas you travel to can help you be more aware of their transmission
• Watch What You Eat and Drink- Make sure all your fish and meat are fully cooked and your water is only from bottles with a sealed top while traveling.
• Stay Covered- Wear protective clothing outdoors, use safe sex practices and when traveling in places where insect parasites are common, use mosquito nets.

If you think you’ve been exposed or infected, there are a number of tests that can be run to detect the presence of parasites in the body. If parasites are detected, there are strategies and protocols that can be used to eliminate the parasites from the body and heal any damage they may have done. Just reach out to my office and we can schedule an initial consultation and begin the process of getting you back to your optimal health.