A member asked:

What happens if you leave giardia untreated?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Hunter Handsfield answered

Specializes in Infectious Disease

Get treated: Why would you even think about not being treated? Treatment is very easy (including some single-dose options) and giardiasis is much worse than any possible side effects. Probably your immune system would clear giardia, but not necessarily; some infections may persist indefinitely. Symptoms probably would eventually improve, even if the infection continues, but it might take weeks or months.

Answered 5/12/2018

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Dr. Heidi Fowler answered

Specializes in Psychiatry

Giardia Lamblia: Giardiasis is a waterborne illness caused by Giardia parasite. Sx's – there may be no sx's or diarrhea, oily floating stool, gas, nausea & abdominal cramps. If untreated it can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration & weight loss. Diagnosis- via blood test for antibodies & checking stool samples for parasites. Tx can include metronidazole, tinidazole & nitazoxanide.

Answered 7/11/2020

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