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Foul-Smelling Diarrhoea Can Signal An Infection Called Giardiasis: What Is It?

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Giardiasis is a common intestinal infection that causes several symptoms, including foul-smelling diarrhoea. Here’s all you need to know about the condition.

Many microorganisms can cause intestinal infections. This includes parasites like Giardia lamblia, also known as Giardia intestinalis or Giardia duodenalis, that can spread from person to person primarily through contaminated food and water. According to StatPearls Publishing, this type of infection is the most prevalent enteric protozoal infection globally, affecting nearly 2% of adults and 8% of children in developed countries…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

Read to find out all about the condition and how to prevent it.

What Is Giardiasis?

Foul-Smelling Diarrhoea Can Signal An Infection Called Giardiasis: What Is It?

Dr Asha Subbalakshmi Musunuri, HOD of Gastroenterology, CARE Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad, describes giardiasis as an intestinal infection caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia lamblia. According to her, it is one of the most common causes of waterborne illnesses worldwide.

Research suggests that about 33% of individuals in developing countries have been infected with giardiasis. It is a significant cause of epidemic diarrhoea among children in the developing world, with prevalence rates reaching 15-20% in those under 10 years.

There are many ways giardiasis can spread. It primarily transmits through the ingestion of Giardia cysts, which can be found in:

Contaminated water: Drinking or swimming in water contaminated with faeces from infected humans or animals.

Contaminated food: Eating food washed or prepared with contaminated water.

Person-to-person contact: Close contact with an infected person, such as in childcare settings.

Fomites: Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the parasite and then touching the mouth. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Common Symptoms Of Giardiasis

Giardiasis can be asymptomatic, meaning it can show no symptoms, making it difficult to detect. However, if symptoms do arise, they can be severe. The most common symptoms include:

  • Diarrhoea or watery, foul-smelling stools that can be intermittent.
  • Abdominal cramps and pain – often described as bloating or gas.
  • Nausea, sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
  • Fatigue or a general feeling of tiredness and malaise.
  • Weight loss due to malabsorption and loss of appetite.
  • Greasy stools that may float due to their high-fat content.

Diagnosis And Treatment

Given that giardiasis is an intestinal illness, its symptoms can mimic many other bacterial or parasitic infections that lead to enteric problems. This can also lead to confusion and cause delays in the diagnosis process.

However, certain tests can help detect and confirm the condition. These include:

  • Stool tests used to identify Giardia cysts or trophozoites.
  • Antigen tests to detect Giardia proteins in stool samples.
  • Molecular tests like PCR tests to identify Giardia DNA in stool samples.
  • Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and duodenal biopsy sometimes used to clinch the diagnosis of giardiasis by directly visualising and sampling the upper gastrointestinal tract.

When it comes to treating giardiasis, healthcare providers usually prescribe medications, which commonly include:

  • Metronidazole: An antibiotic that is often the first choice.
  • Tinidazole: Similar to metronidazole but may be given as a single dose.
  • Nitazoxanide: An antiparasitic medication.
  • Paromomycin: An alternative for those who cannot tolerate the above medications.

*Note that the medicines should only be taken when and as prescribed by the doctor.

How To Prevent The Infection

To prevent giardiasis, Dr. Musunuri shares a few tips and strategies. These include:

  • Drink only treated or bottled water, especially in areas where giardia is common. Avoid swallowing water from lakes, rivers, or pools.
  • Wash fruits and vegetables with safe water; immerse fruits and vegetables in salt water for at least 30 minutes before consumption.
  • Avoid eating raw or undercooked foods that might be contaminated.
  • Practise good hand hygiene, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, or before preparing food.
  • Ensure proper sanitation facilities and practices, especially in childcare settings and areas with poor sanitation infrastructure.
  • Minimise close contact with those who have giardiasis until they have been treated.

Conclusion

If you’re passing watery and bad-smelling stools, especially after coming in contact with contaminated water and food, it could be a sign of giardiasis, a parasitic intestinal infection. This is a very common condition that affects people of all age groups and is one of the leading causes of diarrhoea among children in developing countries. While diagnosis involves undergoing various tests, treatment usually consists of medications that should be prescribed by a doctor. However, when it comes to giardiasis, prevention is key. SOURCE

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

These Mistakes Rapidly Increase Uric Acid: Avoid Them Today

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Uric acid is a waste product that is naturally present in the blood, formed from the breakdown of purines, substances found in certain foods and produced by the body. Normally, uric acid is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted through urine. However, when uric acid levels become elevated, it can lead to various health issues, including joint pain and more severe conditions such as gout. Managing uric acid levels effectively is crucial for maintaining overall health…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

Understanding Uric Acid and Its Impact
Uric acid levels typically range from 3.5 to 7.2 mg/dL, though these values can vary between individuals. When the body produces excessive uric acid or the kidneys are unable to eliminate it efficiently, uric acid can accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to a condition known as hyperuricemia. This condition often results in symptoms like severe pain in the joints, particularly in the fingers and toes, redness in the soles of the feet, increased thirst, and sometimes even fever.

Common Dietary Mistakes Leading to Elevated Uric Acid Levels
Excessive Consumption of Oil and Spices: In many diets, especially in certain cuisines, oil and spices are used liberally. Excessive intake of these ingredients can contribute to higher uric acid levels. For instance, dishes that are deep-fried or heavily spiced can elevate uric acid, leading to health complications. Preserved foods, which are often high in additives and oils, can also contribute to increased uric acid levels.

High Protein Foods: Foods high in protein, such as legumes, are known to raise uric acid levels. While legumes are a valuable source of protein, overconsumption or improperly stored legumes (e.g., those left out at room temperature for extended periods) can exacerbate uric acid issues. It is crucial to store legumes properly, preferably in the refrigerator if they are not consumed immediately, to prevent a rapid increase in uric acid.

Consumption of Sour Foods: Certain sour foods, including amchur (dried mango powder), tamarind, raw tomatoes, and raw mango drinks, can increase uric acid levels. While these foods add flavor, they can exacerbate uric acid problems, particularly if consumed in large amounts. Opting for alternatives like lemon or amla (Indian gooseberry) can be beneficial, as these can help in reducing elevated uric acid levels.

Eating Outside Food: Many people enjoy eating out, but external food items such as kachoris, samosas, and non-vegetarian dishes often contain excessive amounts of oil and spices. These can lead to an increase in uric acid levels. Furthermore, non-vegetarian dishes often contain higher levels of purines, which can further contribute to elevated uric acid. Limiting the intake of such foods and focusing on homemade, balanced meals can help in managing uric acid levels. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Uric Acid Levels
Adopt a Physically Active Lifestyle: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and managing uric acid levels. Incorporate activities such as walking, jogging, or other forms of exercise into your daily routine. Physical activity helps in maintaining a healthy weight and supports the effective elimination of uric acid from the body.

Balanced Diet: Include fiber-rich foods in your diet, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Opt for low-fat dairy products like yogurt and buttermilk, which can aid in managing uric acid levels. Eating balanced meals at regular intervals helps in maintaining metabolic stability and preventing excessive uric acid buildup.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial. Water helps in flushing out excess uric acid through urine and prevents dehydration, which can worsen uric acid levels. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.

Avoid Irregular Eating Patterns: Stick to a regular eating schedule and avoid overeating or skipping meals. Irregular eating habits can disrupt metabolic processes and contribute to increased uric acid levels.

Managing uric acid levels requires a combination of dietary awareness and lifestyle modifications. By avoiding common dietary mistakes, such as excessive consumption of high-protein foods, sour foods, and external food items, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, individuals can effectively control their uric acid levels and reduce the risk of associated health issues. Making these changes today can lead to long-term health benefits and improved quality of life.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

4 Fruits To Eat To Make Blood Flow Very Well In Your Body

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These 4 Fruits to Improve Your Circulation Today!

The first step in ensuring that sufficient blood is able to circulate throughout your body is to ensure that your blood arteries are not blocked. As a direct consequence of this, the elasticity and suppleness of your blood vessels will be restored.

Because the blood arteries are going to be freed up, the blood flow is going to become more unrestricted. According to Healthline, the heart does not need to work particularly hard in order for blood to be pumped through the veins…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

The body can clean out its arteries by utilizing certain fruit components, which can be found in fruits. As a direct consequence of receiving this treatment, the blood vessels will not grow inflamed, brittle, or burst.

Both the unclogging and strengthening of blood vessels can be helped along by the use of specific minerals, nutrients that are present in plants (called phytonutrients), and proteolytic enzymes. The results of your hard work are presented in the following list.

Rutin is a type of bioflavonoid that can be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines. Taking these bioflavonoids regularly can assist in the strengthening of your blood vessels.

Rutin is frequently isolated by scientists and included into various dietary supplements. When peeling an orange, you should take care to remove only the outer layer of skin that is green or yellow. Consume the entire orange, including the white covering that sits on top of it. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Rutin, which has medicinal properties that strengthen your blood vessels, can be tasted, despite the fact that the bitterness is highly medicinal and helpful to both your health and your health specifically.

If you haven’t done so already, peel the pineapple. There is something in the core of your pineapple that you should look for. This is a challenging part of the process to go through. There is a particular region of the pineapple that is particularly rich in bromelin. If you consume it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, it may help unclog your arteries and protect you from developing heart disease.

Another trace element that helps strengthen the blood arteries is copper, which can be found in bananas and avocados.

Copper is required in our diets in only trace amounts; yet, over consumption of this mineral can be detrimental to the health of our blood vessels.

Your delicate blood arteries will not burst into an aneurysm, and you will not have any internal bleeding as a result of this.

Getting your hands on an unripe pawpaw is the fourth possible course of action. Peel it and eat it in this form first thing in the morning when your stomach is empty. This dish has a significant amount of papain, which is an effective enzyme for cleaning out the arteries.

The proteolytic enzyme found in pawpaw contributes to the unclogging of blood vessels, which in turn improves the flow of blood to the organs in the body.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

What typically Happens To Your Body if You Have Not Eaten For a While

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Not eaten for a week can have significant effect on your body. The body Will initially rely on glycogen store for energy, but after 24 to 48 hours, it begins to break down fat and muscle tissue for fuel.

1. Muscles loss: Since the body needs protein for a certain essential functions, prolonged fasting can lead to muscles breakdown as protein is used as alternative energy source…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

2. Energy depletion: Glycogen, the stored form of glucose in the liver and muscles, get depleted within the first 24 to 48 hours. The body starts using fat stores for energy through a process called ketosis.

3. Immune system and Suppression: A lack of nutrients over time can weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.

4. Metal and emotional changes: As energy reserves deplete, metal clarity and mood can be affected, potentially leading to irritability, confusion or mood swings. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

5. Dehydration risk: Since food contains water, not eating can increase the risk of dehydration which can worsen the symptoms of weakness and fatigue.

6. Fatigue and weakness: Without food, blood sugar levels drop, leading to extreme fatigue, dizziness and difficult Concentrating.

 

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