Which specialist treats giardiasis?

Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by a parasite. A GP can review diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating, travel or water exposure, and arrange stool testing when appropriate. A gastroenterologist may help with ongoing digestive symptoms, while an infectious-disease specialist may be asked to advise when infection is difficult to confirm, recurrent or linked to a weakened immune system.

Symptoms can overlap with other bowel conditions. Testing helps match treatment to the cause rather than treating every episode of diarrhoea as giardiasis.

Book a GP Consultation and mention recent travel, untreated water, childcare exposure, household illness and when symptoms began. Drink fluids regularly and wash hands carefully after using the toilet. Avoid preparing food for others while you have diarrhoea. If testing confirms giardiasis, take the prescribed medicine as directed and ask when you can safely return to work, school or swimming.

Seek prompt medical advice for persistent diarrhoea, dehydration, marked weakness, blood in stool, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting or symptoms in a young child, older adult or person with reduced immunity. Urgent care is appropriate for confusion, fainting, inability to keep fluids down or very little urine.

Ask: Do I need a stool test? Which treatment is suitable? How should I prevent spread at home? Should household contacts be assessed? What should I do if symptoms continue after treatment?