What is a Parasite? Why Does It Occur?

Parasites are microscopic or miniature creatures that live and feed on another organism and often cause harm to the host organism. Parasites can be found among a variety of organisms, covering different species including humans, animals and plants. Parasites often steal nutrients from the organism they infect, and this can negatively affect the health of the organism. The causes of parasite formation are usually due to environmental factors, non-compliance with personal hygiene rules or consumption of infected water and food.

Parasites can cause imbalances in ecosystems and spread many diseases. Parasitic infections in humans and other living things can be controlled by appropriate hygiene and sanitation measures, vaccination and treatment methods such as antiparasitic drugs.

How is the Parasite Transmitted?

Parasites are usually transmitted through infected water, soil, food or vector organisms. Transmission methods may vary depending on the type of parasite and the organism it infects. Some of the common ways of transmission are:

Water and Food Transmission: A common way of transmission is through parasite eggs or cysts from water sources or contaminated food. These types of parasites often enter the digestive tract and can cause infection in the intestines.

Transmission via Vectors: Many parasites are transmitted via vector organisms. For example, vectors such as mosquitoes or ticks can carry parasites and infect humans or animals. This is typical for parasites that cause diseases such as malaria and Lyme disease.

Transmission through Soil: Parasite cysts or larvae found in soil can be transmitted to humans or animals through contact. This can happen through bare-handed contact or growing and consuming food with contaminated soil.

Sexual Transmission: Some types of parasites can be transmitted during sexual contact. This is a mode of transmission seen particularly among waterborne parasites.

Transmission through Direct Contact: Parasites can be transmitted through direct contact through cuts or wounds on the skin. For example, infections caused by larvae living under the skin can occur this way.

What Do Parasites Do to the Body?

Parasites can have various effects and cause health problems when they enter the body. The effects of parasites on the body may vary depending on the type of parasite, the region where it is infected, and the health status of the host organism. Here are the general effects that parasites can have on the body:

• Many parasites can settle in the intestinal tract and cause diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain and digestive problems. Intestinal parasites are usually transmitted through food or water.
• Parasites can interfere with the host organism’s absorption of nutrients. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss.
• Parasitic infections can affect the immune system response. The immune system may react against parasites, causing inflammation and other defense mechanisms.
• Some parasites can damage cells and cause damage to organs. Parasites, especially those settling in internal organs, can disrupt organ functions.
• Some blood parasites can cause anemia by affecting the host organism’s blood cells. This can lead to insufficient oxygen transport and fatigue.
• Some parasites can act on the nervous system and cause neurological symptoms. These symptoms may include headache, muscle aches, numbness, and imbalance.
• Some parasites can suppress the immune system response, making the body more vulnerable to other infections.

What are the symptoms of parasites in the body?

Symptoms due to parasitic infections in the body may vary depending on the type of parasite, the infected area and the health status of the infected organism. However, in general, symptoms of parasitic infection in the body may include:

• Diarrhea,
• Constipation,
• Abdominal pain and cramps,
• Gas and bloating,
• Decreased energy levels and fatigue,
• weight loss,
• Nausea and vomiting,
• skin rashes or breathing problems,
• Difficulty falling asleep or insomnia,
• Muscle aches, joint pains or general body aches,
• Some parasitic infections can raise body temperature and cause chills along with fever.

How to Identify a Parasite?

Parasitic infections usually manifest with symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, loss of appetite and fatigue. If there are suspicious symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. A physical examination is performed by the doctor to evaluate health history, travel history and symptoms. Laboratory tests are usually performed on stool, blood, or urine samples to confirm parasitic infections.

Imaging tests can be used to evaluate damage caused by parasites. Diagnosed infections are usually treated with antiparasitic medications, but the course of treatment may vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. It is important to act in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations for correct diagnosis and treatment.

How to Treat Parasites?

Parasitic infections are usually treated using antiparasitic medications. These medications are effective against specific types of parasites, and treatment duration and dosage may vary depending on the type of infection. Antibiotics may be used for bacterial parasitic infections, especially those caused by bacterial parasites in the intestines. If infections are causing inflammation, anti-inflammatory medications may also be included in the treatment plan.

Supportive treatments can be administered to relieve symptoms and prevent dehydration. The course of treatment is determined based on the patient’s health history, symptoms, and type of infection. The use of antiparasitic drugs is usually continued for a certain period of time, and control tests are carried out after completion. It is important to consult a doctor in case of symptoms or health problems after treatment.

What are the Ways to Prevent Interference?

There are several preventive measures that can be taken to prevent parasite infections:

• Drinking clean, safe water is important in preventing parasite transmission, especially during travel. In cases where mains water is not reliable, boiled or purified water should be used.
• Washing food cleanly and cooking it correctly prevents the transmission of parasites from food. Attention should be paid to the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, seafood and eggs.
• Hands play an important role in the transmission of parasites. It is important to wash hands after using the toilet, after contact with animals, and before preparing food.
• Practicing adequate personal hygiene can prevent the transmission of parasites through the skin. It is important to wear clean clothes and shower regularly.
• Obtaining information about the parasite risks of the region to be traveled and getting the necessary vaccinations are among the precautions that can be taken before travel.
• Vectors (e.g., mosquitoes) have a high potential to carry parasites. Therefore, pest control and taking appropriate preventive measures can reduce parasite transmission.
• Attention should be paid to the cleanliness of swimming pools and swimming areas in natural waters. It is important to comply with hygiene rules to protect against parasites transmitted from these areas.