Giardiasis

also known by its latin name "explosive diarrhea"

Giardiasis (GEE-are-DYE-uh-sis) is a diarrheal illness caused by Giardia intestinalis (also known as Giardia lamblia), a one-celled, microscopic parasite that lives in the intestine of people and animals. The parasite is passed in the stool of an infected person or animal. The parasite is protected by an outer shell that allows it to survive outside the body and in the environment for long periods of time. During the past 2 decades, Giardia has become recognized as one of the most common causes of waterborne disease (drinking and recreational) in humans in the United States. The parasite is found in every region of the United States and throughout the world.

Thanks, but I know all that. I was looking for more juicy details, so to speak.

My brother and his wife had giardiasis many years ago. There is an effective medicine called Flagyl, or something like that, you can get with a prescription. It works. The biggest problem is getting a correct diagnosis, since there is no reliable way to test for it.

Apparently, the severity of your symptoms depend largely on how many of the critters you imbibed. Most usual symptoms are diarrhea and general lethargy. I don't think it is worse, but rather easier, on your gut than amoebic dysentary. Dysentary can kill you, if you are in a weakened condition to begin.

I got in Cambodia and it took me a good three months to be rid of it. You do not want to know how horrific it can be.

I got it in Cambodia and it took me a good three months to be rid of it. You do not want to know how horrific it can be.

I thought it stayed in your system for 7 years or something.

I was talking about the persistent shitting.