How is giardiasis treated?

A clinician may assess your symptoms and arrange a stool test when giardiasis is suspected. Treatment depends on your symptoms, medical history and whether testing supports the diagnosis. Prescription options can include an antiparasitic medicine or an antibiotic that is active against Giardia; the choice and schedule should come from a clinician.

Diarrhoea can cause loss of water and salts, so drink frequent small amounts of water or an oral rehydration solution. Eating simple foods as tolerated may be easier while your bowel settles. Symptoms such as bloating, loose stools and abdominal pain can take time to improve after treatment begins.

Take prescribed medicine exactly as directed and do not share leftover tablets. Wash your hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food. Avoid preparing food for other people while you have diarrhoea, and clean bathroom surfaces regularly. Ask a clinician when it is appropriate to return to work, school or close-contact activities.

If symptoms continue after treatment, return for review rather than repeating medicine on your own. Ongoing diarrhoea may require another assessment, a repeat stool test or advice about another cause.

Arrange medical advice if diarrhoea persists, keeps returning, or makes it difficult to drink enough. Seek urgent care for signs of significant dehydration such as very little urine, marked dizziness, confusion or unusual drowsiness. Contact a clinician promptly if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or are caring for a young child or an older adult with these symptoms.

You could ask: Do I need a stool test? Which medicine is suitable for me? How should I replace lost fluids? When should symptoms improve, and what should I do if they continue? Could anyone in my household need assessment?