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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Have I got rid of my parasite infection?

    Related Topics
    Digestive Health Infectious Diseases Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
    Hi, At the end of April this year I picked up a parasite (D Fragilis) that rocked my stomach about a fair bit. Once discovered that this was the cause of my sudden, over-night development of IBS-like symptoms my doctor put me on a 10 day course of antibiotics. Even a month or so after finishing the antibiotics my symptoms were still exactly the same even though the follow up test showed that the parasite wasn't detected. I was referred to a Gastroenterologist who dismissed that I had a parasite infection and said it was more likely that I developed IBS overnight. I am currently waiting to see a different specialist. My gut has become manageable if I take metamucil everyday, otherwise it goes back to being upset. Is it possible that my gut is just taking a while to settle down after being upset by the parasite, or is it possible I still have the parasite infection and it just didn't show up in the follow test after antibiotics?
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    Leah Marmulla

    Dietitian

    Leah's mission is quite simply to help others take steps to walk their life journey. We have four primary 'parts' creating our life experiences. The … View Profile

    Helo there, 

    It is possible for a parasite to have been present, and treated with the medication. Taking strong antibiotics, and the bug itself certainly can change the gut's integrity, and also the types of bug colonies present. We all have bugs in our gut, and many provide a great service in supporting our health. When they become out of balance, or reduce significantly - stress, other bugs, food changes medication then it can take time to rebalance.

    It is important to speak with a practitioner who is familiar with probiotic therapy, or at a minimum look at Inner Health Plus. If the D. Fragilis caused changes to the gut wall, then other more specific gut nutrients may be required, and short term elimination of some foods to give the gut a chance to heal.

    As said, it is important to work with pratitioners experienced in this type of work.  A good starting point is is ACNEM website, for practitioner listings in your area. 

    Good luck and get in touch if you require more help. 

    To your health Leah

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  • Amber Davies

    HealthShare Member

    Hi Leah,

    What foods would potentially need to be eliminated for a short time? I have previously been told (by a Naturopath) that all processed and sugary foods should be removed, as well as gluten, dairy, red meat and even nuts in some cases.

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    Leo Martyn

    Counsellor, Psychotherapist, Social Worker

    Leo Martyn is an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist who has been engaged in private practice for many years. He has also worked in a number … View Profile

    I am not a health professional in the field for treating this, but finding a specialised doctor who knows the territory well could be helpful. There's some public level information that may assist you in the journey here: www.badbugs.org.

    All the very best.

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  • Anonymous

    This is a very controversial area and I would be circumspect about taking advice from people not qualified in the area

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