Giardiasis Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms usually start 5 to 28 days after infection. Not all people who are infected have symptoms. But, all people who are infected can transmit the disease.

Symptoms may include:

• Diarrhea , acute or chronic
• Loose, greasy, foul-smelling stools
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Bloating
• Gas
• Nausea or vomiting
• Weight loss
• Mild fever (rare)

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include:

• Laboratory exam of several (usually three) stool samples
• Stool testing for Giardia proteins (called the Giardia antigen test)
• In some cases, testing of a fluid or tissue sample from the intestine

If you are diagnosed with giardiasis, everyone living in your household should be tested for infection as well.