Giardia symptoms usually occur within one to two weeks after becoming infected. Common symptoms of infestation can include diarrhea, bloating, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In otherwise healthy people, symptoms generally last two to six weeks. People who experience recurring Giardia symptoms or whose symptoms never completely go away may have a condition called chronic giardiasis.
Giardia Symptoms: An Overview
When a person becomes infected with the parasite that causes
giardiasis (
Giardia lamblia), the parasite begins to multiply within the intestines. After one to two weeks (the average is seven days),
Giardia symptoms can occur. This period between becoming infected and the start of
Giardia symptoms is the "
Giardia incubation period."
Giardia symptoms may begin gradually or come on all of a sudden. Symptoms often vary among individuals. Some people may be infected with Giardia but have no symptoms; other people may experience severe Giardia symptoms.
Giardia infection can cause a variety of intestinal symptoms. Common ones include:
- Diarrhea
- Gas or flatulence
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Belching
- Vomiting
- Greasy stools that tend to float
- Stomach cramps
- Upset stomach or nausea.
These Giardia symptoms may lead to weight loss and dehydration.
How Long Do Giardia Symptoms Last?
In otherwise healthy people, Giardia symptoms may last two to six weeks. The diarrhea can improve after a week or so. Occasionally, symptoms last longer. These people may have chronic giardiasis.
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