Parasites that cause diarrhea, cramping, flatulence and other abdominal issues. This test tests for 6 different parasites in stool via via a method called “Multiplex Real-time PCR. Parasites can lay dormant and cause probles years after being infected.
Can you get parasites in the UK?
Many people associate parasites with exotic countries, but even here in UK we can get parasites. You can carry parasites without being aware of having them and sometimes they only cause mild symptoms. Parasites can be dormant for a long time, even years, without causing symptoms and is activated only when our immune system for some reason is weakened. So whether you have got parasites in UK or abroad, you can carry it for a long time before it causes any health problems.
Which parasites are tested
- Giardia lamblia
- Entamoeba histolytica
- Cryptosporidium spp.
- Cyclospora cayetanensis
- Blastocystis hominis
- Dientamoeba fragilis
Common symptoms of parasites
- Upset stomach (cramps, flatulence, loss of appetite)
- IBS
- Diarrhea and / or constipation
- Nausea
- Fatigue
…and much more.
Parasite test or other gut test?
If you suffer from gut problems, we can also recommend our other gut health tests that analyzes gut flora, malabsorbtion, leaky gut and more. We offer these as smaller gut tests or more comprehensive gut tests. For those of you who suspect Candida, we offer a test specifically for this. SIBO is also available, which is a separate test that is done via a breath test, which measures overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.
About the test
The test is performed via a method called “Multiplex Real-time PCR” and involves the following:
- detects minimal amounts of parasites
- no false positives
- the test can be sent by regular mail
- reliable results even in asymptomatic individuals
All our health tests including our stool tests are done from home. Everything you need to perform the test is in the test kit. The test is then sent to our ISO certified lab for analysis, and you will receive your test answer digitally.
About the parasites
Blastocystis hominis
One can be infected with Blastocystis hominis without having to experience any symptoms. Symptoms often occur when we are exposed to stress, illnesses or the like. Common symptoms are diarrhea, constipation, bloated stomach, abdominal pain and weight loss. Some studies show that there are links between Blastocystis hominis and Hashimotos (autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland).
Dientamoeba fragilis
Dientamoeba fragilis is a common parasite and you can be infected without experiencing any symptoms. Common symptoms are diarrhea and stomach discomfort. Some studies suggest that there is a link between IBS and dientamoeba fragilis.
Giardia lamblia
Giardia lamblia can survive in water (even mildly chlorinated water) for several months and it is thus more common for more people to become infected during the summer months when they spend more time outdoors and might accidentally ingest contaminated water or food. Common symptoms are bloating, nausea, discomfort and fatigue.
Entamoeba histolytica
Entamoeba histolytica is relatively common but leads to symptoms only in about 10-20% of those infected and can thus be difficult to detect. It is an infectious disease of the gut and causes symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. The parasite is spread via contaminated water and food, so good hand hygiene is the key to keeping these parasites away. Most common in poor parts of the world.
Cryptosporidium species
Cryptosporidium is found all over the world and infection often occur by drinking water or eating food contaminated with the parasite. Both humans and animals can be infected through their feces. The parasite can also be transmitted between people and from animals to humans. Symptoms are often severe with diarrhea as well as abdominal pain.
Cyclospora cayetanensis
Cyclospora cayetanensis is most common in tropical countries and most often transmitted through fresh and untreated plant products. It is common for the symptoms to come and go over time and the most common symptoms are diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain and weight loss.
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