I have a lot of problems like stomach issues, and brain fog, what could it be? One main reason could be parasites, especially if you have a pet.

Parasites

Intestinal parasites are organisms that live in or on a host and obtain nutrients at the host's expense. In humans, intestinal parasites primarily include protozoa (single-celled organisms) and helminths (worms). While many parasitic infections are treatable, they can cause a wide range of digestive and systemic symptoms depending on the type of parasite, the severity of infection, and an individual's overall health status.¹²

Parasitic infections occur worldwide and may be acquired through contaminated food or water, poor sanitation, exposure to infected individuals, or travel to areas where certain parasites are more common.³

Common Symptoms and Signs:

Intestinal parasites are organisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract and may interfere with normal digestive function, nutrient absorption, and immune system activity.

Common intestinal parasites include:

Protozoa

Giardiasis (Giardia intestinalis)
Amebiasis
Cryptosporidiosis

Helminths (Parasitic Worms)

Roundworms
Hookworms
Pinworms
Tapeworms
Whipworms⁴

Some infections cause few or no symptoms, while others may lead to significant digestive or systemic health concerns.

Symptoms vary depending on the parasite involved and the severity of infection.

Digestive Symptoms

Abdominal pain or cramping
Bloating
Gas
Diarrhea
Constipation
Nausea
Vomiting
Changes in bowel habits

Nutritional and Metabolic Symptoms

Unexplained weight loss
Reduced appetite
Nutrient deficiencies
Malabsorption

General Symptoms

Fatigue
Weakness
Sleep disturbances
Headaches
Brain fog
Skin irritation

Additional Symptoms

Anal itching (especially with pinworm infections)
Fever
Dehydration
Blood or mucus in stool
Anemia in some parasitic infections⁵⁶

Symptoms can range from mild and intermittent to severe and persistent.

Common Stressors:

Emotional Stressors

Although emotional stress does not directly cause parasitic infections, chronic stress may influence immune function and overall health.

Chronic Stress

Long-term stress may affect immune system regulation and recovery from illness.

Anxiety

Digestive symptoms associated with parasitic infections may increase anxiety and health concerns.

Depression

Persistent symptoms and chronic illness can affect emotional well-being and quality of life.

Workplace and Family Stress

High workloads
Caregiving demands
Relationship challenges
Financial concerns

Major Life Events

Relocation
Loss of a loved one
Significant life transitions
Social isolation⁷⁸

Managing emotional health may support overall recovery and resilience during illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are having these issues, please make an appointment to talk about your options, complete some test, and then we will develop a plan to fit you.

Make An Appointment

Resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Parasites Overview
World Health Organization (WHO) – Parasitic Diseases
CDC – Parasites and Travelers' Health
MedlinePlus – Parasitic Diseases
Mayo Clinic – Giardia Infection Symptoms and Causes
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) – Parasitic Diseases Information
American Psychological Association – Stress and Physical Health
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Coping With Stress
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Sleep and Immune Function
CDC – Healthy Sleep Habits
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Digestive Diseases Overview
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Digestive Health Resources
World Health Organization – Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Drinking Water Information
CDC – Diagnosis and Treatment of Parasitic Diseases