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Any organism that lives in or on another organism (host) to derive its needed nutrients is known as a parasite. The host suffers in this parasitic relationship and sadly, we humans are victims. 

What do parasites actually do? They make use of the nutrients that are supposed to be beneficial to their hosts, depriving them and causing the development of health problems due to nutrient deficiency. 

Certain parasites live in our bodies and sometimes on our skin. These parasites affect our health by causing certain diseases. In fact, intestinal parasites are often implicated in many ongoing health issues, ranging from digestive symptoms to insomnia and more.

Let’s look at some of these parasites and how they affect our health.

What types of parasites affect humans?

Human parasites are of three types, they include:

1. Protozoa

These parasites are single-celled organisms that divide and multiply rapidly after infesting the human body. Protozoa spread through insect bites, contaminated water, and food, as well as person-to-person contact.

A common parasite of this type is plasmodium which is responsible for malaria infection.

2. Helminths

These parasites are worms that often reside in the human gut where they absorb digested food through their body surfaces. These worms eventually pass through human stool. Helminths include Hookworms and Ascaris.

3. Ectoparasites

These parasites live outside the human body. They are usually found on the skin where they feed by sucking the human blood through modified mouthparts. Ectoparasites include Bugs, ticks, lice, and fleas.

Some common human parasites

Many protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites affect humans. Here are some common parasites of humans and how they affect our health.

1. Plasmodium

This protozoa cause Malaria. It is usually carried by Anopheles mosquitoes which act as “vectors” that transmit the parasite from an infected person to another person through bites.

The malarial parasite makes its way to the liver where it destroys the red blood cells. This results in fever, headache, chills, and Anemia.

2. Trichomonas Vaginalis

This is a single-celled parasite that affects the female genitalia, causing an infection known as Trichomoniasis. This infection can be sexually transmitted, it may also occur in males but without symptoms.

3. Roundworm

Roundworm, also known as Ascaris, enters the human body through contaminated food and drinks. It causes Ascariasis, an infection that is not associated with any symptoms.

Ascaris deprive the human body of nutrients by absorbing digested food, making the host deficient in certain nutrients.

4. Tapeworms

These are flatworms that hook themselves to the small intestine and absorb digested food, depriving their hosts of nutrients.

Tapeworms are ingested by humans through undercooked pork or beef. The flat body of tapeworms gives them a high surface area for absorbing digested food. This starves the host and causes deficiency of certain nutrients, which results in various health problems.

5. Bed bugs

Bed Bugs are insects that are found on beddings and clothes. They tend to bite their hosts while they sleep at night. Bites from bedbugs can result in swelling of the skin, itching, and skin discoloration.

Prevention of parasitic infections

You can reduce your risk of parasitic infections by taking several steps which include:

• Ensure your water is pure, clean, and safe for drinking
• Do not eat undercooked meat
• Ensure your food is well cooked at a recommended temperature
• Wash and sanitize your hands regularly especially after using the toilet
• Avoid unprotected sexual intercourse

Treatment of parasitic infections

If you notice any symptoms associated with parasitic infection, it is best to visit a doctor. You will be diagnosed to determine the type of parasite and its location in your body.

After diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe medications to you. You may also be advised to drink plenty of water to replenish your body fluids, especially if you’ve had diarrhea.

While parasites are injurious to our health, certain precautions such as safe sex and cleanliness can be taken to prevent their infestation.

You can consult Dr. Jason Jones at our Chiropractic office at Elizabeth city, NC to learn more about parasites, which are natural stressors and natural ways to prevent and get rid of them to maintain a good state of health.