How common is bloating in giardiasis?

Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by a parasite. It may affect how the gut handles food, leading to extra gas and a distended or uncomfortable abdomen. Loose stools, greasy or foul-smelling stools, cramps, nausea, tiredness, and reduced appetite can occur alongside bloating.

Symptoms can vary. Some people have mild digestive upset, while others notice a more persistent change after exposure to contaminated water, food, or close contact with someone who is infected.

Contact a clinician if you have ongoing diarrhoea or bloating, especially after travel, camping, swimming in untreated water, or a household exposure. They may ask about exposures and arrange a stool test to look for an infection.

Drink fluids regularly, particularly if stools are loose. Choose foods you can tolerate while unwell and wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food to reduce spread.

Get urgent medical help for signs of dehydration such as very little urine, marked dizziness, confusion, or inability to keep fluids down. Prompt assessment is also needed for severe abdominal pain, blood in stool, black stool, high fever, or symptoms in a young child, older adult, pregnant person, or someone with a weakened immune system.

Ask whether a stool sample is needed, whether your recent exposures could fit giardiasis, and whether people you live with need advice. Tell the clinician about travel, water sources, medicines, and the timing and appearance of bowel changes.