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Do Some Intestinal Parasites Have Medical Advantages?

The Skinny on Stomach Parasites

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 19:57:27 +0000

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There are over one hundred thirty different kinds of parasites that currently make their homes in our bodies. These parasites can range from microscopic organisms to tapeworms that are several feet long.

Yet many people wrongly assume that parasites are relegated to tropical underdeveloped and malnourished third world nations. But parasites have no respect for national borders, class boundaries, or sexual differences. Recent estimates from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) project that as many as 8.3 billion people will be infected with parasites by the year 2025.

The Warning Signs for Parasites in the Stomach

The signs and symptoms of parasites may take several weeks, months, or even years to develop. And the symptoms that do develop can often be confused with other illnesses. Constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, joint and muscle pain, anemia, allergies, skin conditions, nervousness, sleep disorders, teeth grinding, chronic fatigue syndrome, and immune dysfunction are all common symptoms of a parasitic infection.

The Offenders

There are several parasites that make their home in your intestines, causing pain and discomfort in the stomach. Here’s a list of the most common offenders:

Roundworms
Enterovermicularis Necator americanus	Ascaris lumbricoides Trischuris trichiura	Ancylostoma duodenale Trichinella spiralis
Tapeworms
Taenia solium Taenia saginata	Hymenolepis nana Hymenolepus diminuta	Diphyllobothrium latum
Flukes
Schistosoma mansoni Schistosoma japonicum	Fasciolopsis buski
Protozoa
Entamoeba histolytica Dientamoeba fragilis	Giardia lamblia Toxoplasma gondii

The Parasite Infection

So how does a parasitic infection occur? It’s a lot easier than you may think. Stomach parasites can enter the body through a number of sources such as bug bites, contact with infected pets or feces, blood transfusions, dirty syringes, and swimming in contaminated water. But the most common form of infection occurs through the ingestion of contaminated food and water.

We eat and drink food and water everyday, and several times throughout the day. So, our exposure to contamination may be constant. Stomach parasites can be found in well water and even chemically treated city water. Both plants and animals contain parasites and many times cleaning and cooking is sometimes not enough to kill off the offenders.

Water is the main source of infection for the spread of giardiasis, a very common intestinal parasitic infection. In fact, the Center for Disease Control has reported that the Giardia parasite is the most prevalent source of water-borne disease in the United States.

The Diagnosis

Stomach parasites can mimic the symptoms of other conditions and disorders. If you are concerned that you may have stomach parasites, ask yourself the following questions to determine whether or not you are at risk for infection: If you think you may have a parasitic infection, consult your health care provider and ask to be tested.

Have you ever in your life traveled to an area with less stringent sewage, water treatment and food hygiene standards? Consider in particular US travel to Hawaii or other tropical islands, or international travel to countries such as Mexico, Israel, china, Russia, Indonesia or regions of Africa, Asia, Europe, Central America, or South America.
Do you frequently swim in untreated lakes, rivers, ponds, and streams?
Have you ever had your water supply tested for pollutants and parasites?
Have you ever drunk the water from an untreated source (rivers, lakes or streams) without boiling or chemically treating it?
Do you frequently eat at restaurants where raw food is served (sushi bars, salad bars, etc.)?
Do you eat meat that is rare or undercooked?
Do you have, or do you frequently handle pets?
Does your pet sleep in the same bed with you or any of your family members?
Do you clean your cat’s litter box?
Do you work in or around an area where sanitation may be a concern (daycares, hospitals, zoos, or veterinarian’s office)?

Treatment Options for Stomach Parasites

Once you have been diagnosed with stomach parasites, your health care provider will guide you through a treatment protocol.

The most important steps in treating stomach parasites include doing a colon cleanse to help purify the digestive system, making a few dietary changes, administering cleansing supplements to help kill the parasites, doing a parasite cleanse to help the intestines thrive, reintroducing the friendly bacteria to the system with a probiotic supplement, and making the necessary lifestyle changes to avoid reinfection.

The Final Word

Parasitic Infections are a common reality in the United States. Potential sources for infection are all around us. But there is no reason to become paranoid. By taking a few careful precautions to avoid infection and re-infection, we can ensure that stomach parasites will not become a problem. Knowledge is the key. Learn everything you can about the parasites that are prevalent in your area, or the parasites that you or your loved ones may have been exposed to in your lifetime. Then take the necessary steps to eradicate them.

article written by Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DABFM

Do Some Intestinal Parasites Have Medical Advantages?

5 Steps for Parasite Removal

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 19:40:46 +0000

In order to relieve the symptoms of a parasitic infection, it is essential to completely remove the parasites from the body. Any medication or nutritional supplement that aims to treat the parasitic infection without removing the parasites will be unsuccessful.

Rather, here are five comprehensive steps that will help you remove parasites from your body so you can get on with your life. These include cleansing the system, modifying the diet, administering supplements to kill the parasites in all of their life stages, reintroducing healthy bacteria to the digestive system with a high quality probiotic supplement, and making the necessary lifestyle changes to prevent re-infection from the same type of organisms.

Step 1) Cleansing the System to Help Remove Parasites

Most parasites entrench themselves within the various organs of the body, especially within the intestinal tract. Therefore, in order to get rid of these harmful organisms, it is essential to cleanse the system of mucus and waste that may be surrounding the parasites.

There are several herbal cleansers that can be used to detoxify your digestive system. Common ingredients in these herbal cleansing supplements include comfrey root, agar-agar, flax seeds, psyllium husks, alginate, beet root, citrus pectin, papaya extract, and bentonite clay. It is important to remember to drink lots of purified water while taking these types of cleansing products.

One of the most common side effects of these cleansing herbs include constipation and bowel impaction. This happens when you don’t drink enough water. Any sort of impaction inside your digestive system will only help these types of intestinal worms thrive.

There are also several ready made colon cleansing products on the market that may help. These products usually incorporate one of the herbal ingredients mentioned above in their formula. It is important to know the source and quality of the herbs used in any dietary supplement. Be sure to do the proper research, and follow the dosage and cleansing instructions carefully. Bottom-line, there are many different types of cleansing programs, so do your research on the best colon cleanse.

Home enemas and professional colonic irrigation are two more good methods for cleansing the system and parasite removal. A colonic irrigation is typically performed in a doctor’s office. It involves flushing the entire length of the large intestinal with a lukewarm water solution. This procedure may take up to 45 minutes to dislodge and remove toxins throughout the intestinal tract. Home enemas are the do-it-yourself version of the colonic irrigation. Ingredients such as garlic, vinegar, and blackstrap molasses can be added to the home enema to increase its effectiveness.

Step 2) Modifying The Diet

There are very few studies that explain the exact relationship between parasites and nutrition. However, it is pretty safe to assume that a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables will increase your immune system and your defenses against intestinal parasites, because of all the nutrients contained in the fruit.

In addition, since it is well documented that these types of organisms thrive on sugar and carbohydrates, it may be a good idea to limit your intake of simple-carbohydrates such as refined sugar, enriched white flour, and processed foods. It is especially important to avoid eating sushi and other undercooked fish (and pork). While sushi has deep roots in many cultures, it is also one of the most common sources of infection from the food we eat.

Step 3) Taking a Parasite Removal Supplement

There are several dietary and herbal remedies that can be utilized to help remove parasites in every stage of their life cycle. If you think you may be infected with some sort of intestinal or stomach parasite, it would be wise to take an herbal cleansing designed to flush out these types of organisms.

There are many ingredients included in these herbal cleansing supplements. Some of these incredients include black walnut hull, wormwood, clove, kamala, just to name a few. There are other herbs that can help flush out these organisms, so consult your local herbalist or specialist to help recommend a particular herb. At some stores, you can buy these herbs in bulk and add them to your smoothies for at-home cleansing methods. However, it is easier for most people to just do a parasite cleanse.

Step 4) Reintroduction of Healthy Bacteria

With all of the steps you have taken to cleanse the digestive system and remove parasites, it is now essential to reintroduce healthy bacteria to your intestinal tract. Healthy bacteria usually occurs naturally in the digestive system, but some cleansing herbs will remove the healthy bacteria, along with the harmful parasites.

Probiotics will help to detoxify your digestive system, maintain the proper chemical balance, and act as natural antibiotic against harmful bacteria and yeast organisms. The recolonization of the digestive tract with friendly flora will help protect the body against future parasitic infections, as well as the development of other yeast, bacterial, and fungal related disorders. There are many probiotic supplements that can be used to help maintain a healthy digestive system, as well as guard against further disorders.

Step 5) Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Reinfection

This is a proactive do-it-yourself step. Make it a point to learn everything you can about the risk factors for developing a parasitic infection. If possible, try to determine the cause of your infection, and then make the necessary changes to avoid further problems. If it is not possible or practical for you to determine the source of your parasitic infection, take the steps necessary to avoid re-infection. Properly cooking food, frequently washing hands, disinfecting water supplies, and limiting contact with pet feces are all good ways to reduce your exposure to parasites.

If you are planning a trip abroad, look into the food hygiene, sewage, and water treatment standards of the area you will be visiting. Contact the Center for Disease Control to learn about the regional disease that can be found at your destination. If there is a possibility of parasitic infection, be sure to stay away from unfiltered water, uncooked fruits and vegetables, and undercooked meats. Take the appropriate steps to protect yourself. Parasite removal should be practiced on a daily basis, and if you are infected, you should do a parasite cleanse at least 2x every year.

article written by: Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DABFM

Do Some Intestinal Parasites Have Medical Advantages?

The Benefits of Doing a Parasite Cleanse

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 19:38:28 +0000

A complete parasite cleanse requires several distinct steps in order for it to be fully effective in purging the body of parasites.

1) Take Away The Food:
The first and most important step of doing a parasite cleanse is to clear away the plaque or mucous build up in your intestinal tract, that the parasites are using for nourishment. Many of these intestinal organisms become embedded into the colon. If this happened, herbal supplements and medications may not be able to reach them until the overlying waste material is removed.

There are several methods that you can use to remove waste from the colon. Taking an oxygen colon cleanser is one of the best methods, but there are also many herbs that can help, including psyllium husks, agar-agar, comfrey root, alginate, beet root, bentonite clay, citrus pectin, papaya extract and flaxseed oil. These are all common herbal methods for cleansing the colon of toxins and waste.
2) Kill The Parasites:
The next phase of a parasite cleanse is actually killing the parasites and parasitic eggs that are present in the body. There are several different herbal remedies and foods that have anti-parasitic properties. Taking an herbal supplement designed to kill harmful organisms is another great way to remove parasites. Fresh pineapple and papaya are two good food sources for killing parasitic worms. Pomegranate juice is effective against tapeworm infections.

Other effective de-wormers include pumpkin seeds, garlic, onions, carrot tops, radish roots, kelp, cabbage, almonds, blackberries, sauerkraut, and fig extract. There are also several ready-made herbal preparations that can be used to cleanse parasites from the system. If you do choose to use a prepared parasite cleanse, be sure that you use a high-quality preparation and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
3) Rebuild The Body:
In the previous two steps, you have taken measures of prevention, as well as finished your parasite cleanse. If all went well, you should’ve cleaned the waste and toxins from your digestive system. In the process, it is possible that you have also removed some of the healthy bacteria that inhabit your colon.

These healthy bacteria help to detoxify the body. It is important to eat foods high in probiotics or take a probiotic supplement to help recolonize your intestinal tract with enzymes, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins to rebuild your biosystem. Bacterial strains that are most frequently used for recolonizing the intestines include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaris, Lactobacillus bifidus, and Streptococus faeceum. Many people actually need a combination of each of these bacteria in order to get their systems working effectively. Whichever product you choose to use, be sure to read the instruction label carefully.

What Are Parasites?

A parasite is an organism that lives off, and causes harm to, the body of its host. Some experts estimate that as many as 85% of Americans are infected with at least one form of parasite. Some authorities feel that this figure should be even higher. Parasites can enter the body from a number of sources: the food we eat, the water we drink or bathe in, the soil we walk on, or even the air we breathe.

Once inside the body, parasites leech essential nutrients and emit dangerous toxins that can wreak havoc on organs such as the intestines, the heart, the lungs, and the brain. It is because of these types of harmful organisms, that a good parasite flush and colon cleanse should be performed at least twice a year.

How Do Parasites Affect The Body & Colon?

Parasites can live in the body for months or even years without causing any noticeable symptoms. But once their numbers reach a great enough level, it is likely that they will begin to make their presence known. Common symptoms of parasites include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, headaches, itchy rashes, teeth grinding, blurred vision, joint pain, weight loss, appetite changes, fatigue, sleep disorders and severe migraines.

Parasites may also be responsible for symptoms such as menstrual disorders, angina, rapid heart beat, jaundice, memory problems, and impairment in cognitive thinking, slow reflexes, and even seizures.

Important Information About The Colon

The large intestines, commonly referred to as the colon, are the key to the good health of the body. The colon is the site where nutrients are absorbed from the foods that we eat. And they are also the location where waste material is sorted and removed to keep it from poisoning the body. Therefore a properly functioning colon is very important to overall good health and long life. Many of us take measures to protect the health of other organs in their body. We exercise to keep our hearts healthy, and we use sunscreen to protect our skin.

Yet, many of us do nothing to maintain the health of our colon. Many experts agree that the challenges of the digestive system can be the most damaging to the human body. According to the Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, over sixty five percent of illnesses occur as the result of an improperly functioning colon.

Parasites are a leading cause of dysfunction in the colon. Organisms such as parasitic worms or amoebas can attach to the lining of the colon and leech nutrients away from the body. They can also emit toxins that further disrupt the functioning of the colon. A regular parasite cleanse can remove these harmful organisms, as well as any fecal matter or debris that is built up in this area.

by Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DABFM

Do Some Intestinal Parasites Have Medical Advantages?

14 Common Symptoms of Parasites

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 19:36:31 +0000

Over half of all Americans will be infected with an intestinal parasite at some point in their lives. Yet, many of us do not recognize the signs and symptoms of a parasite infection because they can occur weeks or even years after the initial infection, and because a parasitic infection often mimics other similar conditions.

The most common symptoms of a parasite infection include constipation, diarrhea, gas and bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, joint and muscle aches, anemia, allergies, skin conditions, tumors, nervousness, sleep disorders, teeth grinding, chronic fatigue, and immune dysfunction.

1) Constipation

Some parasitic worms are actually large enough to physically block the passage of nutrients and waste at certain points in the digestive system. Severe parasitic infections in the bile duct or the intestines can make bowel movements difficult, leading to worsened symptoms of constipation.

2) Diarrhea

Another common symptom of parasites, is the development of diarrhea, or frequent, loose, watery stools. Many parasites produce a prostaglandin that leads to a sodium and chloride loss in the body. This in turn can causes diarrhea. This process is especially true in the case of protozoan infection.

3) Gas and Bloating

Parasites that live in the upper small intestines can cause intestinal symptoms such as inflammation that leads to gas and bloating. Frequent occurrences of gas and bloating are classic signs of a parasite infection. The discomfort is aggravated by the consumption of hard to digest foods such as beans and non-organic meats.

4) Irritable Bowel Syndrome

One of the more common symptoms of parasites, is irritable bowel syndrome. It is not uncommon for IBS to be caused by an intestinal parasite, because they can dig in and attach themselves to the intestinal wall. This often causes irritation and inflammation that can in turn lead to muscle spasms, intestinal blockage, and a malabsorption of nutrients. Fatty substances in particular can be difficult to digest.

5) Joint and Muscle Aches

Intestinal parasites can also move and migrate throughout the body. It is not uncommon for them to become encysted in joint fluids or even in the muscles themselves. This causes pain, aching and irritation that are often mistaken for arthritis. Joint and muscle pain can also be caused by the body’s own immune system response to the parasite infection.

6) Anemia

There are several types of parasites that attach themselves to the lining of the intestines and divert nutrients away from the human body. In severe infections, these parasites can lead to blood loss sufficient enough to cause anemia.

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7) Allergies

Intestinal parasites cause irritation and inflammation. This in turn can make it difficult to digest certain types of foods. The body’s response to these undigested food particles may be to produce increased levels of eosinophils, which are one of the body’s immune system defenders. These eosinophils then inflame the body’s tissue and cause an allergic reaction.

8) Skin Conditions

Intestinal parasites can cause the release of hormones and immune system defenders that can in turn irritate the skin. Hives, rashes, weeping eczema, and other allergic reactions are common with intestinal parasites. Protozoan infections can also cause ulcers, swelling, sores, lesions, and dermatitis.

9) Tumors

The body may develop a tumor like mass in response to the parasitic infection that is also known as a granuloma. The tumor is developed to encase parasitic larvae or eggs. Granulomas most often develop in the colon or on the rectal wall, but they are also found in the lungs, liver, peritoneum, and the uterus.

10) Nervousness

Intestinal parasites release waste products and other toxic substances into the body’s system. In chronic or severe parasitic infections, these toxins may irritate the central nervous system resulting in restlessness, nervousness, and anxiety. These are all common symptoms of parasites in your body.

11) Sleep Disorders

Intestinal parasites can cause irritation that can disturb sleep patterns making it difficult to fall asleep and to stay asleep. In the night, the body works to eliminate toxins via the liver. Parasitic infections can interrupt this process and upset the rhythms of the body. In fact, some parasites may try to migrate out of the anus at night causing itching, discomfort, and irritation.

12) Teeth Grinding

This symptom of parasite infection can also cause a condition known as bruxism, or the abnormal grinding, clenching, and gnashing of the teeth. This condition occurs most often at night, and it may be linked to the restlessness and anxiety caused in the body by the parasite’s release of waste and other toxins.

13) Chronic Fatigue

Parasites can exhaust and deplete the body, on physical, mental, and emotional levels. It can lead to the mal-absorption of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins, draining the body of both nutrients and energy. As a result, another common symptoms is the development of chronic fatigue, with symptoms such as exhaustion, aches, apathy, depression, difficulty concentrating, and impaired cognitive ability.

14) Immune Dysfunction

Oftentimes, when you have a parasite living inside of you, it will leech vital nutrients from the body, forcing the immune system to operate with a poor supply of vitamins, minerals, and energy sources. Parasites also stimulate the production of immunoglobulin A, which is a defender against foreign substances. Over time, this over stimulation can exhaust the body’s supply of immunoglobulin A, leaving the body susceptible to attacks from bacteria, yeast, fungus, virus, and other foreign invaders.

article written by: Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DABFM

Do Some Intestinal Parasites Have Medical Advantages?

5 Common Intestinal Parasites in Humans

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:56:45 +0000

Sure, we all know there are many types of parasites out there in our living environment. But have you ever stopped to think about whether those same parasites are making their home inside your body?

Intestinal parasites in humans are more common than may you think. In fact, there are hundreds of parasite species that can make their home in our intestinal tract, as well as many other places in the human body.

If you think you or somebody in your family has an intestinal parasite, here’s what you need to know in order to treat the problem safely and quickly. It may be wise to look into doing a parasite cleanse or colon cleanse.

1) Hookworms

There are two species of hookworms that commonly infect humans, Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. Of the two, Ancylostoma duodenale is a bit larger, at around eight to thirteen millimeters. Whereas Necator americanus usually reaches a length of seven to nine millimeters.

The life cycle of these two intestinal parasites begins with eggs that are passed in the stool. If conditions are just right (warm, damp, and shady) the eggs will hatch and release their larvae in a number of days. The larvae will continue to grow and mature in the soil until they come in contact with a human host. The larvae can then penetrate the skin to enter the human body and travel through the veins to the heart and then to the lungs. Once in the lungs the parasites travel up the bronchial tree to the pharynx where they will be swallowed.

Hookworms will then grow and mature while making their home in the small intestines. If you take no immediate action, most of these parasitic worms will eventually be purged from the system, but this process may take a number of years. Hookworms are the second most common intestinal parasite in humans through out the world. These parasites can be found worldwide in areas with a moist, warm climate. Both species of worms can be found in Africa, Asia and the Americas.

2) Schistosoma Species

Schistosomiasis is disease caused by the human intestinal parasite of the Schistosoma family. The three main species infecting humans are Schistosoma haematobium, Schistosoma japonicum, and Schistosoma mansoni.

The life cycle of these types of organisms begins when their eggs are eliminated from a host in feces or urine. The eggs then hatch and release larvae that can swim until it penetrates its next host, a specific species of snail. It will then grow and mature in the snail until it is excreted again. At this point, the Schistosoma parasite is ready to infect a human host.

Once contact is made with a human, the parasite will penetrate the skin of the human host and travel through the tissues until it makes its home in the veins surrounding the intestines. As the parasite reaches maturity, it can deposit eggs in the intestines that then move throughout the system to the bladder and the ureters until they are excreted with the feces and urine. And the whole cycle begins again.

Schistosoma parasites can reach a length of seven to twenty millimeters. These specific human intestinal parasites are typically transmitted via contact with contaminated water, either by drinking, swimming or bathing in it. Not common in North America, Schistosoma parasites are primarily located in parts of South America and the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

3) Cyclospora cayetanensis

Another human intestinal parasite is caused by the species Cyclospora cayetanesis. Its life cycle begins with the passing of eggs into the soil with feces or urine from a contaminated host. However, unlike many parasite species, direct fecal contact will not cause a Cyclospora infection. Instead, the human intestinal parasite will enter the body through the consumption of contaminated food and water.

Once in the body, Cyclospora parasites will invade the intestinal tract and mature and multiply within the system. Eventually, the eggs of the parasite will be shed in the waste of the human host, beginning the cycle anew. Cyclospora cayetanensis has been found in many countries throughout the world. Since the early 1990s, there have been at least eleven cyclospora outbreaks in North America alone, infecting approximately four thousand people.

4) Giardia intestinalis

The single-celled protozoan human intestinal parasite known as Giardia intestinalis, or Giardia lamblia, is responsible for the condition called giardisis. The life cycle of this parasite begins with the excretion of parasitic cysts in the waste of an infected host. The cysts may survive for several months in the environmental, until they are ingested by the human host in contaminated water, food, or contact with contaminated feces.

Once in the human body, Giardia will move into the small intestine and multiply. As the parasite continues moving through the system, it may become encysted near the colon. This cyst will then work its way out of the body via feces or urine. These human intestinal parasites are infectious when passed in the stool; therefore it is possible for one human to contract this condition from another. Giardia have a worldwide distribution, and they are found most frequently in warm, moist climates.

5) Pinworm

Enterobius vermicularis is the human intestinal parasite that is also known as human pinworm, as humans are the only known host of this parasite species. Pinworms typically lay their eggs on the skin surrounding the anal area. Therefore self-infection can occur when a contaminated individuals scratches the anal area and transfers the eggs on his hands to his mouth.

Human to human transmission is also possible via contact with contaminated clothes, toilet, surfaces, or bed linens. Pinworm eggs may also become airborne and infect a human via inhalation. Once inside the human body, pinworm eggs travel to the small intestine where they hatch and mature. Adult pinworms make their home in the human colon, where they can live for several months.

Once the female pinworms reach maturity, they will travel through the system and exit via the anus, where they will lay their eggs. These pinworm infections occur all over the world, most frequently in school-aged children or in overpopulated areas. This is the most common human intestinal parasite worm infection in the United States, with as estimated 40 million persons infected.

article written by: Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DABFM

Do Some Intestinal Parasites Have Medical Advantages?

Dog Parasites: How to protect your family pet

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:51:32 +0000

If you have a dog, then you need to know about the different types of parasites that can affect your pets health. Dogs are the frequent victims of a number of internal parasites or worms such as roundworms, hookworms, and coccidia.

In most cases, early diagnosis and treatment of parasitic infections can prevent the development of any significant symptoms, but it is important to know what signs to look for.

Dog parasite infections may cause any or all of the following symptoms: diarrhea, weight loss, dull/dry hair, bloodly stools, and vomiting. Here is a closer look at the parasites that can affect your dog, and what you can do to keep him healthy.

Roundworms:

The two species of roundworms that can infect dogs are Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina.

Roundworms are tan or white, and they range in length from two to five inches. If a dog is severely infected with these parasites, he may vomit these parasitic worms or pass them in his stool. The worms may be visually alarming as they look like a moving pile of spaghetti.

Roundworm infections can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and uncomfortableness. If left untreated, roundworms can multiply to such great numbers that they can cause an intestinal blockage, which can ultimately, death. While death is an extreme circumstance, an intestinal blockage will definitely lead to a severe case of dog constipation. These dog parasites can also be transferred to humans where they can cause a disease called visceral larva migrans. This disease may result in inflammation of muscle tissue and blindness.

Hookworm:

Hookworms are blood sucking intestinal worms that commonly infect dogs and humans. Ancylostoma caninium is the most common species of hookworm that is found in dogs.

Hookworms are small, thin parasites that can infect a dog that walks on contaminated soil or feces. The organism will then penetrate its skin. Once inside the dog’s body, hookworms will then fasten to the wall of the small intestine and suck blood.

These types of dog parasites are smaller than roundworms, and they cannot be seen by the naked eye, but they are easily detected by microscopic fecal examination.

In humans, hookworms can cause a type of dermatitis called cutaneous larva migrans or creeping eruption. Once inside the human body, hookworms may burrow under the skin causing a linear, itchy lesion.

Tapeworms:

A tapeworm is another type of dog parasite that can be detected visually with the naked eye. These harmful organisms are transmitted to dogs via the consumption of infected fleas or meat. They are long, flat parasites that attach themselves to the small intestines. As they reach maturity, segments of their bodies will break off and enter the digestive system until they are passed in the feces or urine.

A dog owner may notice these startling parasites on the dog’s anus or in his stools. Tapeworms are generally flat and white, reaching a length of about one-half inch. They may look like a grain of rice or a sesame seed. Tapeworms cannot be directly transmitted from dogs to humans. However, small children could accidentally ingest an infected flea and contract a tapeworm infection.

Whipworms:

Whipworms, such as Trichuris vulpis are not visible to the naked eye, making them difficult to detect and diagnose. Unfortunately, this particular dog parasite is also the most difficult to eradicate and control. Symptoms of a whipworm infection include severe diarrhea, flatulence, weight loss, fatigue, and poor overall condition.

Coccidia:

The dog parasite Isopora canis is a protozoan parasite, meaning that it is not a worm but a single-celled microscopic organism. Because it is so small, this parasite has relatively few nutrient needs, and it can therefore grow to great numbers in the canine body.

A coccidia infection may cause watery diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. In young puppies, or dogs with a weakened immune system, this parasite can cause diarrhea that is severe enough to be life threatening.

Preventing Dog Parasites

Good hygiene and proper preventative measures are the keys to keeping your dog “parasite-free.” Many species of parasites can infect dogs that come in contact with contaminated feces. So it is important to keep a close eye on any waste your dog produces, and remove it from the yard at least once a week.

If you suspect that your dog may have contracted a parasitic infection, consult your veterinarian immediately. One type of wormer may not be effective at treating all dog parasites. When you take your dog for a walk, try to keep him away from other animals’ feces, and be sure to remove any that your own dog may contribute. Be sure to wash your hands after handling your dog to avoid transmitting a parasitic infection from your dog to yourself.

by Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DABFM

Do Some Intestinal Parasites Have Medical Advantages?

6 Common Parasites in Cats

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:49:43 +0000

There are a number of parasitic infections that can affect your cat. Here’s what you need to know about parasites in cats and what you can do to prevent and treat infections they may have.

Cheyletiella

Also known as walking dandruff, these parasitic mites infect all breeds of cats. They cause the formation of scales similar to dandruff as well as itchiness, inflammation, redness, and crusty patches. When present in large numbers, you may even be able to see the small white mites moving over the surface of the skin (hence the name walking dandruff.)

If not treated properly, cheyletiella can migrate inside the cat’s body through the nasal passages. A variety of anti-parasitic formulations can be used to treat these mites, including selenium sulphide shampoo, pyrethrin dip, and lime sulphur dip. A natural remedy is sprinkling an herbal cleansing supplement in your feline’s food.

Coccidia

Coccidia are single celled microscopic cat parasites that infect the intestines. These parasites in cats are known to cause digestive disorders such as watery diarrhea and bloody stools and can even be life-threatening to young or sickly cats. Cats can pick up this parasite by consuming infected mice or licking contaminated feces or dirt from their fur. This common parasite in cats is particularly prevalent in kittens that reside in groups such as in shelters and kennels. Currently, there is no medication that can kill coccidia. Once the organism stops replicating, the immune system can catch up and kill off the harmful organisms.

Heartworm – Is this a Cat Parasite?

Heartworms are considered a large organism that lives in the heart of cats. These long, spaghetti-like worms can reach a length of anywhere from six to ten inches in length. Heartworms are transmitted to cats and other animals through bites from infected mosquitoes. This common parasite in cats typically lives in the right side of the heart and lung, and can cause significant health problems and even death.

Possible signs of a heartworm infection in cats include coughing and difficulty breathing, similar to feline asthma. Vomiting is another potential symptom. It is also possible for a cat to suddenly pass away from a heartworm infection after presenting no other noticeable symptoms. Treatment for cat heartworms can be a somewhat risky procedure as a sudden blockage in the heart or lungs could severely harm the animal. The cat is kept quiet and still for several days while the parasites are killed slowly. Then the remaining eggs and microfilariae are destroyed to prevent re-infection.

Roundworm

A cat can become infected with this parasite by consuming contaminated eggs (through grooming,) or by ingesting a prey animal that is infected. A roundworm cat parasite can cause diarrhea and vomiting leading to weight loss. Roundworm parasites are long and white, similar to spaghetti, and an animal may even vomit one up on occasion. But despite this obvious proof, it is difficult to know if your cat or kitten has become infected with roundworms, therefore many veterinarians and pet owners are in favor of regular cat parasite deworming, especially if the cat hunts prey animals. Kittens are frequently assumed to be infected and are often automatically dewormed.

There are numerous over the counter and prescription deworming products available, including, Drontal and Drontal Plus (contains febantel,) Strongid, Nemex, and HeartguardPlus (pyrantel pamoate is the active ingredient,) Piperazine, Panacur (Fenbendazole) and Revolution (Selamectin.) These medications work by anesthetizing the parasites so that they release their grip on the intestines and pass into the stool. Therefore, don’t be alarmed if you see them, even if they are still alive. Also, it may be necessary to perform several subsequent deworming routines in order to remove migrating parasites that may have escaped initial removal attempts.

Tapeworms

The most common tapeworm that affects cats is called Dipylidium canium. This large parasite can reach up to eight inches in length. It is an intestinal parasite that attaches to the intestinal wall with hook-like suckers. Cats can become infected with tapeworms by licking and swallowing a contaminated flea. As the flea is digested, the parasite attaches itself to the intestinal lining.

A tapeworm infection can cause nausea and vomiting. A severe tapeworm infection can cause anemia and weight loss. Occasionally, a segment from the tapeworm will break away and pass into the cat’s stool or cling to her anal area. These parts may look like small segments of rice. Tapeworm infection can be treated by oral or injected medication, which cause the parasite to dissolve within the intestines. Flea control is also very important in preventing re-infection.

Whipworm

Adult whipworms are hair-like in appearance. They burrow into the wall of the cat’s large intestine and lay their eggs. In small numbers, whipworms may not cause any noticeable symptoms of infection. But in cases of severe infection, whipworms can cause appetite loss and diarrhea. The whipworm egg is highly resilient, making this cat parasite difficult to eradicate.

Article written by: Dr. Edward Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DABFM

Do Some Intestinal Parasites Have Medical Advantages?

Brain Parasites: An Uncommon, but Dangerous Infection

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:48:50 +0000

Why Do Parasites Live In The Brain?

Different parasites choose to make their home in different places in the body. Some parasitic worms prefer the environment of the digestive system, while certain flukes thrive in the tissues of the lungs. Other parasites, like the pig tapeworm, Taenia solium, make their way to the brain to live and multiply.

The brain is filled with oxygen and nutrients, and it also has structures in place that prevent the immune system from attacking parasites in the initial stages of infection. This makes for an inviting home for brain parasites!

How Do Parasites Get Into The Brain?

Most brain parasites must make a rather long journey in order to make their home in the brain. In addition, the brain can be a difficult place to invade due the protective barrier between the bloodstream and brain fluid, called the blood-brain barrier. This barrier between the blood and the fluid in the brain is comprised of cells that form a tight seal around the blood vessels that bring nutrients to and from the brain. This makes it difficult (but not impossible) for parasites and other toxins to enter the brain.

When parasite numbers become overwhelmingly large, or when a deficiency exists in the systems of the brain, parasites can make the leap from the bloodstream to the fluids of the brain.

So scientists have speculated that the parasites in the brain may release an enzyme that dissolves a portion of the blood brain barrier which allows the organism to enter. However, this is just a theory.

Which Parasites Can Infect The Brain?

There are two known brain parasites:

1) The pork tapeworm, Taenia solium
2) The amoeba, Naegleria fowleri

Taenia solium:
The pig tapeworm, Taenia solium, is responsible for the condition known as neurocysticercosis, the most common parasitic infection of the brain. Neurocysticercosis affects more than fifty million people all over the world, and it is the leading cause of brain seizures. This disease develops when larvae from Taenia solium enter the body via the ingestion of diseased pork meat. Once inside the body, the tapeworm migrates to the small intestine and remains there until it reaches maturity. From here the parasite makes its way to the brain where it attaches either to the brain tissues or to the cavities within the brain.

The parasite will then form cystic lesions that can also affect the eyes, muscles and spinal cord. The exact location of the cysts will determine the symptoms of the disease. Parasites in the brain can interrupt the normal neurological activity and cause brain seizures. On the other hand, parasites that attach to the brain-fluid cavities will cause symptoms such as headaches, migraines, nausea, and dizziness, as well as brain seizures. These additional symptoms may occur because the parasite is interrupting the normal flow of brain fluid within the brain. Over time, this blockage of fluid may cause pressure to build up that can lead to permanent brain damage.

source

Naegleria fowleri:
Unlike the pork tapeworm, Naegleria fowleri, another common parasite in the brain, have only infected about 175 people in the world. Therefore this organism is not as easily known or understood. It is rare to become infected with this parasite, but extremely dangerous if you do.

Naegleria fowleri is an dangerous brain parasite that causes a condition called primary amoebic meningo-cephalitis. Out of the 175 cases of this disease that have been reported, only six patients have survived. For this reason, scientists are eagerly searching for more answers as to these particular kinds of parasites in the brain and how they can be treated.

Naegleria fowleri is an amoeba that is commonly found in the wild, especially in warm freshwater lakes and ponds. It can also survive in heated swimming pools. This parasite can infect a human host that is swimming in contaminated waters by attaching to the inside of its host’s nose and then traveling up the nose and into the brain. Once in the area of the brain, the amoeba releases an enzyme that allows it to dissolve the host’s tissues, and enter the tissues of the brain. Naegleria fowleri can then into feast on the valuable nutrients with the neurons of the brain. This is why this particular parasite causes such rapid death.

In addition to the brain damage caused by destroying the brain’s neurons, the presence this parasite can also cause inflammation of the tissues within the brain. This inflammation can lead to additional brain damage and even death.

article written by Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DABFM