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.
What happens if parasitic infection is not treated?
Often they can go unnoticed, with few symptoms. But many times these infections cause serious illnesses, including seizures, blindness, heart failure, and even death.
Do intestinal parasites go away on their own?
Some types of intestinal worms, such as tapeworms, may disappear on their own if you have a strong immune system and healthy diet and lifestyle. However, depending on the type of intestinal worm infection, you may require treatment with an antiparasitic medication.
Can intestinal parasites be fatal?
Parasites are not a disease, but they may spread diseases that can be fatal. However, many parasitic infections are treatable and preventable. If a person is experiencing a skin rash, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or other symptoms of a parasitic infection, they should speak with their doctor.
How long can you have intestinal parasites?
Symptoms generally last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. In people with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to illness such as HIV), symptoms may last longer. Healthcare providers can prescribe the appropriate antiparasitic medications to help reduce the amount of time symptoms last.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
What kills intestinal parasite?Can a parasite survive on its own?