Have you ever considered that the persistent, unexplained symptoms you're experiencing might be rooted in an unlikely source? While many chronic symptoms are attributed to various factors like lifestyle choices, environmental factors, heavy metals, mold, and others, one frequently overlooked possibility is the presence of parasites. Yes, those tiny (and sometimes not so tiny 😊) organisms that thrive at the expense of their host. In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of parasites and explore their potential as a root cause for chronic symptoms.
Parasites and Us
Parasites are organisms that live on or inside another organism (a host), and rely on it for their survival. These organisms can be divided into three main categories: ectoparasites (external parasites, like ticks and lice), endoparasites (internal parasites, such as intestinal worms and protozoa), and parasitic fungi.
Contrary to popular belief, parasites are not limited to tropical or developing countries. They can be found worldwide and affect people from all walks of life, regardless of socioeconomic status. In fact, some studies suggest that a significant percentage of the global population may be harboring parasites without even realizing it! At our rural Kansas practice, we frequently ask patients how often they deworm their dogs, cats, and cattle?! And then remind them, they are living in that same environment.
Parasites and Chronic Symptoms
Parasitic infections often go undetected for extended periods due to their ability to adapt and evade the host's immune system. While acute infections can cause immediate and severe symptoms, chronic parasitic infections may manifest in a more insidious manner, leading to persistent, vague, and difficult-to-diagnose symptoms. Here are a few ways in which parasites can contribute to chronic symptoms:
Digestive Disturbances: Parasites that reside in the gastrointestinal tract can cause a range of digestive issues, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea. These symptoms are often mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Fatigue and Weakness: Some parasites consume nutrients intended for the host, leading to malabsorption and nutrient deficiencies. This can result in chronic fatigue, weakness, and a general feeling of lethargy. Sometimes a perceived anemia is actually due to a parasitic infection!
Allergies and Skin Conditions: Certain parasites release toxins or trigger an immune response in the host, which can manifest as skin rashes, hives, itching, and other allergic reactions. Chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis may also be exacerbated by parasitic infections.
Weight Fluctuations: Parasitic infections can disrupt the host's metabolism and alter their appetite, leading to unexplained weight loss or weight gain.
Mental and Emotional Disturbances: It has been suggested that some parasites can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, and contribute to symptoms like anxiety, depression, mood swings, and cognitive impairments.
Quick Symptoms Checklist:
Anxiety
Bloating
Brain Fog
Chemical Sensitivities
Fatigue/Lethargy
Food Sensitivities
Itching, Esp rectal itching at night
Mood Disorders
Stomach pain, tenderness, or cramping
Teeth Grinding
Unexplained aches and pains in either joints or muscles
Weight loss
What Do I Do About It?
Traditional medical treatment options for parasitic infections usually involve anti-parasitic medications specific to the particular type of parasite (if they are even detected…there are currently no great lab testing options for parasites). Additionally, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, including proper hygiene, clean food and water sources, and avoiding exposure to potential vectors (e.g., mosquitoes and ticks), can help prevent future infections.
Alternatively, there are great and effective options with herbal combinations. These herbs, combined with supporting an efficient route out of the body, and ensuring there is enough energy to help eliminate them from the body, can be paramount in addressing parasites and their symptoms. Our recommendation is to start by taking stock in your symptoms (listed above), then working to open up drainage pathways and upregulate your energy pathways that help the body detox these buggies. Sometimes this may take some time and consistency -- that is okay!
While parasites might not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering the root cause of chronic symptoms, their presence should not be disregarded. Chronic parasitic infections can lead to a myriad of persistent and often confusing symptoms, affecting multiple aspects of an individual's health.
If some of this resonates with your health journey up to this point, let’s work together!