Abdominal Parasitic Infections: Symptoms, Causes & Relief

Parasitic infections in your abdomen are most often caused by worms (helminths), although other parasitic diseases, including malaria, can cause abdominal symptoms as well. The symptoms of parasitic infections depend on the organism infecting you and can range in severity depending on your overall health and nutritional status. Symptoms of parasitic infections in the abdomen include digestive problems and fever.

Malaise

• Soon after you become infected with parasitic worms, you may experience a general feeling of illness, including aches and pains throughout your body, headache and a mild fever.

Swelling

• Swelling or bloating of your abdomen may be accompanied by gas as you are unable to properly absorb food as a result of being infected with parasites.

Upset Stomach

• As the worms begin to multiply in your intestines, you may experience a loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, which can lead to weight loss.

Diarrhea

• Parasitic infections commonly cause diarrhea, and you may have watery or bloody stools that may contain live worms.

Itching

• Your body may have an allergic reaction to the worms, their larvae or eggs, which can cause you to have itching on your abdomen that can spread all over your skin.

Pain

• You may experience abdominal pain and cramping due to parasitic infections, and as the worms mature, you may have pain and weakness in your muscles and joints.