Problem parasites: what are they and what are the symptoms of infection?

Dubai is a melting pot of parasites. With a mobile population bringing bugs from all corners of the globe, different levels of hygiene and a hot, humid climate, all kinds of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites thrive. Despite their proliferation, doctors and patients tend to dismiss or ignore parasites as a factor in chronic disease even though the World Health Organisation puts the number of people into the billions which are estimated to be infected.

Integrative medicine is perfectly placed to treat parasites as it blends conventional medicine with complimentary therapies to maximize the body’s innate potential for self-healing. The major concern is not just eradicating the parasite but understanding what conditions in the body or “internal milieu” that led the organism to survive and thrive. It is not the seed but the ground it is sown in.

Often parasites become evident when treating other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation or gastritis. Integrative medicine offers a new approach to parasites that takes into account underlying causes new techniques for detection and natural, less invasive treatments where possible.

What is a parasite? Parasites are organisms that live in a close relationship with the host at its expense. This definition is limited to single celled organisms called protozoa (eg Giardia lamblia) and worms (eg roundworms, tapeworms and flukes). Not all parasites are pathogenic or disease causing though. You may have heard of E. coli, which can be considered “friendly flora” and lives harmoniously in the intestines with millions of other organisms including bacteria. 

back to top

Bacteria, viruses, yeasts and fungi are not strictly considered parasites but can have equally damaging effects. They can be pathogenic and involved in the disease process such as the common bacteria Helicobacter pylori, implicated in gastritis, stomach ulcers and ultimately stomach cancer. Overgrowth of yeasts like Candida albicans can be a factor in disease processes that suppress the immune system like chronic fatigue.

Since most parasites enter the body through the mouth (oral-fecal route) they tend to lodge initially in the intestines causing gut disturbance. You might suspect parasitic infections if you have drunk contaminated water, had an episode of food poisoning or returned from traveling with any of the following symptoms:

• Diarrhea

• Bloody and/or foul smelling stools

• Fever

• Gastritis

• Abdominal pain and cramps

• Nausea and vomiting

• Bloating and flatulence

• Irritable bowel syndrome

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Allergy particularly food allergy

• Fatigue, poor concentration

• Constipation

• Skin problems - Rash, anal itching, urticaria

• Weight loss

NB Some parasites can live in their host for years with few symptoms.

Over a period of time if parasites are left untreated or incorrectly treated they can play a central role in the disease process by absorbing their hosts food, leaving the person nutritionally deficient. Parasites can damage the intestinal wall causing leaky gut syndrome and weaken the immune system making you more prone to infections and further parasite infestations. Over a period of time, parasites can migrate to other parts of the body creating further health issues such as inflammation, pain and joint problems.

Traditional detection methods for parasites depends on the quality of the laboratory and the personnel: how the specimen is collected and handled, number and type of specimens examined and examination techniques. One of the newest most detailed tests used by doctors practicing integrative medicine to check for parasites is the Comprehensive Diagnostic Stool Analysis (CDSA). As well as checking for digestion, absorption and immune capabilities of the gut, the CDSA looks at harmful parasites and the balance of beneficial bacteria. This test is done through a laboratory in the US with other laboratories in Australia and the UK also beginning to offer similar protocols.

Bio-resonance management of parasites is a new and emerging field of energy medicine. It is based on the premise that like all organisms, parasites emit electromagnetic frequencies that are stored in the body fluids, tissue and organs of the host. These pathogenic oscillations disturb the body’s own regulatory power thus producing the symptoms described above. Bio-energetic testing determines whether information contained in parasite test ampoules resonates with the patient. This combined with patient case history can diagnose the patient’s parasitic condition (ref, Reinhold Will, German Naturopath).

Complimentary therapies can offer significant health improvements for patients with parasitic infections. In some cases antiparasitic drugs may be needed however natural alternatives such as herbs, homeopathy, bio-resonance and nutritional therapies can have excellent results on their own without the side effects of drugs.

back to top