What are the common symptoms of a Giardia infection?

Giardia infection, caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia, commonly manifests with gastrointestinal symptoms due to its impact on the intestinal lining. The hallmark symptoms include diarrhea, which can be watery and may last for several days to weeks. Abdominal cramps and bloating frequently accompany diarrhea, reflecting the disturbance in normal digestive function caused by the parasite's presence in the intestines.

These symptoms arise because Giardia interferes with nutrient absorption and causes inflammation of the intestinal lining, leading to the digestive issues commonly reported by infected individuals. While nausea and vomiting can occur, they are not as characteristic of Giardia infections as the gastrointestinal symptoms cited. Additionally, fever and chills are more indicative of other types of infections, and skin rashes are not typical manifestations of a Giardia infection. Understanding these symptoms is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment of giardiasis.