Giardiasis: Care Instructions

Giardiasis (say "jee-ar-DYE-uh-sus") is an infection of the intestines caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia. The illness is also called giardia (say "jee-AR-dee-uh").

Giardia can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, gas, and nausea. You may feel sick once and then get better. Or your symptoms may come and go for some time. Sometimes giardia does not cause any symptoms.

You may become infected with giardia if you eat food or drink water that is contaminated with infected human or animal waste. You can get giardia by drinking untreated water from wells, streams, rivers, and lakes. You also can get giardia from close contact with someone who is infected, such as from working in a day care center or nursing home.

• If your doctor prescribes medicine, take it as directed. Contact your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Talk to your doctor if you are having problems with milk and milk products. Some people with giardia have trouble digesting milk products.
• To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids. Choose water and other clear liquids until you feel better. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
• If you have diarrhea, try eating small amounts of food when you feel like eating.

• Do not drink untreated or unpurified water. If you are camping or hiking, boil or purify water from lakes and streams before you drink it.
• When you travel in high-risk areas, drink bottled water and avoid raw fruits and vegetables. Do not drink beverages containing ice cubes made from untreated water.
• Wash your hands often to prevent getting giardia from an infected person. This is very important before you prepare food and after you change diapers, use the toilet, or help someone else use the toilet.