What are the symptoms of giardiasis?

Symptoms may start after swallowing the parasite in contaminated water, food or through close contact, although the timing varies. Diarrhoea may be watery or loose, and stools can be pale, greasy or difficult to flush. Bloating, cramping, gas, nausea and reduced energy can continue when bowel symptoms persist. Some infected people have no symptoms, so a lack of diarrhoea does not rule it out after a relevant exposure.

Drink regularly to replace fluid losses and wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet and before handling food. Avoid preparing food for others while you have diarrhoea. Write down recent travel, untreated-water exposure, household illness and the pattern of stools. A GP Consultation can assess whether stool testing is needed. If giardiasis is confirmed, Antibiotic Treatment may be prescribed when clinically appropriate.

Seek prompt help for signs of dehydration, severe abdominal pain, blood in stool, persistent vomiting, confusion, fainting or very little urine. Arrange medical advice when diarrhoea continues, keeps returning, causes weight loss or leaves you unusually weak. Children, older adults and people with other health conditions may need earlier assessment because fluid loss can become significant.

Could my symptoms be giardiasis or another infection? Do I need a stool test? Which fluids and foods are suitable while I recover? If treatment is prescribed, how can I reduce spread to people at home?