Overview
Amoebiasis is an infection of the intestine caused by a parasite spread through food and water contaminated with human waste, making it common where sanitation is poor. Many people carry it without symptoms, while others develop loose stools, cramps and sometimes blood or mucus in the motions. It responds well to specific antiparasitic medicines. Rarely the parasite spreads to the liver and forms an abscess, which needs prompt treatment.
Symptoms
- Loose stools, sometimes with blood or mucus
- Stomach cramps and bloating
- Frequent urge to pass stools
- Tiredness and weight loss with long infection
- Fever and right-upper belly pain if the liver is involved
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for loose stools with blood or mucus, or diarrhea that lasts more than a few days, so the right treatment can be given.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- High fever with severe right-upper belly pain, or heavy blood in the stools with weakness — seek care urgently
Causes
The parasite Entamoeba histolytica, spread through contaminated food and water and poor hand hygiene.