ALERT

Access info on COVID tests, vaccines, visitor policy, hospitalization data, and FAQs.
toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Giardiasis (giardia)

Top of the page

Giardiasis (giardia)

Giardiasis (also called giardia) is an illness caused by infection with the parasite Giardia lamblia, also known as Giardia intestinalis. Giardiasis is usually caused by drinking water that is contaminated with the parasite. In the United States, G. lamblia is most often found in untreated streams, rivers, and lakes.

Symptoms of giardiasis include diarrhea, a lot of gas (flatulence), abdominal cramps, and nausea. In some people, giardiasis does not cause any symptoms. In other people, the symptoms may keep coming back (recurring).

Infection with the parasite can be prevented by hand-washing and by treating water taken from rivers, lakes, or streams before drinking it or using it to cook, wash dishes, or brush teeth.

Symptoms of giardiasis may go away on their own. But medicine, usually metronidazole, can relieve the discomfort and prevent the spread of the illness.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2015 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Take Care, Someone Needs You.

You take care of others, so take care of yourself. Let us be your partner in health, whether you're recovering from an injury, checking in for your annual exam, or enjoying an online class.

Because when you take care of yourself, everyone around you benefits.

Quick Links
Connect with Us
Contact Us In Boise (208) 381-2222