Abdominal Discomfort or Pain:

Parasites (such as roundworms or giardia) can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to cramps or aching.

Diarrhea (Acute or Chronic):

Many intestinal parasites, including protozoa like Cryptosporidium or Entamoeba histolytica, can trigger frequent loose stools or persistent episodes of diarrhea.

Bloating and Excessive Gas: Upset digestion, fermentation of food, and bowel irritation caused by parasites can result in gas buildup and bloating.

Nausea or Vomiting:

Infection may cause stomach upset or decreased appetite.

Fatigue and Weakness:

The body’s immune response to parasites and depletion of nutrients (e.g., iron deficiency) can lead to chronic tiredness or fatigue.

Unintentional Weight Loss:

Parasitic infections may interfere with nutrient absorption and appetite regulation, sometimes causing weight loss despite normal eating habits.

Anal or Perianal Itching:

Particularly common with pinworm infections (Enterobius vermicularis), which can cause intense itching around the anus.

Skin Issues (Rashes or Lesions):

Some parasites, such as hookworms or certain ectoparasites (like scabies mites), can enter through the skin or create dermatological manifestations including itching or rashes called migrans.

Altered Bowel Movements:

Constipation or loose stools may alternate, especially in chronic infections.

Visible Worms or Eggs in Stool:

In some infections (tapeworms, roundworms, or pinworms), actual worms or segments may be seen in stool.

Headaches or Migraines:

Certain parasitic infections may cause inflammation, leading to headaches.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness:

Persistent parasitic burdens might contribute to altered blood flow or nutrient deficiency, occasionally causing lightheadedness.

“Brain Fog” or Difficulty Concentrating:

Nutritional deficiencies and the body’s immune response to chronic infection can interfere with cognitive function.

Anxiety or Restlessness:

Ongoing physical discomfort or dysregulation in the gut-brain axis (associated with intestinal parasites) can sometimes manifest as anxiety.

Depression or Mood Swings:

Gut health is linked to mental health; therefore, chronic parasitic infections may disrupt the microbiome and influence neurotransmitters linked to mood.

Insomnia or Disturbed Sleep:

Some parasites release toxins or cause nighttime symptoms (e.g., pinworm itching), making it hard to sleep well.

Joint or Muscle Pain:

Some parasitic infections cause immune reactions or inflammatory responses that may be felt in the musculoskeletal system.

Nutritional Deficiencies (Hair Loss, Brittle Nails, etc.):

Chronic infection can hinder absorption of vitamins and minerals, leading to signs of deficiency.

Food or Environmental Sensitivities:

Chronic immune activation triggered by parasitic presence may increase overall sensitivity to certain foods or external irritants.

Chronic Cough or Respiratory Symptoms:

Some parasites (for instance, certain roundworms) may migrate through or inhabit the lungs, causing coughing or respiratory irritation.