Does giardiasis cause diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea is a very common presentation of giardiasis and may be accompanied by cramps, bloating, gas, or nausea. Stools can become loose, frequent, or unusually greasy because the infection disrupts digestion in the small intestine.

Giardiasis is caused by a parasite that can interfere with digestion and the handling of fluid in the gut. This can produce diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort. Diarrhoea has many possible causes, including other infections, medicines, and food intolerance, so it does not by itself identify giardiasis.

A clinician may ask about travel, untreated water, swimming, food exposure, and illness in people around you. Stool testing can help when giardiasis is suspected, particularly when symptoms persist or recur.

Take regular small sips of water or oral rehydration solution. Continue eating light foods if you can, and avoid alcohol until you feel better. Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before touching food. Do not prepare food for others while you have diarrhoea if you can avoid it.

Contact a clinician if diarrhoea continues, returns after improving, or follows a possible contaminated-water exposure. Giardiasis may need prescription treatment after assessment.

Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, or signs of significant dehydration such as very little urine. Get prompt advice for blood in the stool, high fever, or diarrhoea affecting a baby, an older adult, or someone with a weakened immune system.

Could giardiasis be contributing to my diarrhoea? Do I need stool tests or treatment? How much should I drink, and when can I safely return to work, school, or food preparation?