Protozoa are microscopic, single-cell parasites. Since they're invisible to the naked eye and don't always cause immediate symptoms, protozoa are much harder to detect. People can live for years not knowing they're infected.
Can you have a parasite for years?
Parasites can live in the intestines for years without causing symptoms. When they do, symptoms include the following: Abdominal pain.
Can parasites be dormant for years?
WHEI researchers have discovered how a common parasite hijacks host cells and stockpiles food so it can lie dormant for decades, possibly changing its host's behavior or personality in the process. Picture a tiny, single-celled organism that resides undetected within its host for decades.
Can parasites go undetected?
However, parasitic infections still occur in the United States, and in some cases, affect millions of people. Often they can go unnoticed, with few symptoms. But many times these infections cause serious illnesses, including seizures, blindness, heart failure, and even death.
What happens if you have parasites for a long time?
The symptoms may be mild and non-specific, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Untreated tapeworms can live for years, and can lead to malnutrition. Long-term complications could include headaches, blindness, and seizures.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
How long can you have parasites for?Can you have a tapeworm for years and not know it?
