About this topic
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a tiny germ or parasite. You can get this infection by eating food and drinking water that is contaminated with stool from an infected person. If you have this infection, you may or may not have any signs. Young children and older people are more likely to have signs of this infection. ‚
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What are the causes?
The parasite called Cyclospora causes this illness. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
This illness has been reported all across the world. This may be due to worldwide travel or shipping of food from one zone to some other. People who live in places with poor sanitation may have a higher risk for this illness. ‚
You are more likely to have this infection if you have a weak immune system. Having HIV, or taking chemo or other drugs may give you a weak immune system. ‚
What are the main signs?
Many people have no signs at all. If you do have signs, you may feel like you have the flu. You may have: ‚
- Watery loose stools
- Passing a lot of gas
- Burping
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Upset stomach and throwing up
Signs most often happen close to 7 days after eating the contaminated food. They can last more than 3 weeks if left untreated. ‚
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
The doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor may order: ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
- Antibiotic drugs
- Replacing fluids
- Rest
Are there other health problems to treat?
What lifestyle changes are needed?
At first: ‚
- Stay away from caffeine and foods that are greasy, high in fiber, or sweet.
- Eat soft, bland foods like bananas, plain rice, boiled potatoes, toast, crackers, cooked carrots, and baked chicken without the skin or fat.
- Eat small meals every few hours instead of three big meals
Later when signs have gone away: ‚
- Wash and dry fruits, vegetables, and fresh herbs fully before using them in cooking and meal preparation.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Prevent and fight an infection
- Ease the signs of loose stools
- Prevent throwing up
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Practice proper sanitation and throwing away of stool.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds.
- Always wash your hands after going to the toilet and before cooking or eating.
- Teach children to keep their hands out of their mouth.
- If you suspect that your drinking water may be contaminated, boil it for at least 30 minutes.
- Wash, peel, or cook raw fruits and vegetables before you eat them.
- Cook your foods with care. Cook meals at 145 ‚ °F (63 ‚ °C) to 165 ‚ °F (74 ‚ °C).
- Avoid eating raw foods, especially seafood.
If you are traveling: ‚
- Do not eat food from street vendors.
- Avoid drinking fluids with ice.
- Avoid eating raw meats, fruits, and vegetables.
- Drink bottled water.
- Use bottled water when brushing your teeth.
Where can I learn more?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/cyclosporiasis/gen_info/faqs.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚