Parasitic Infections:
Diagnosis and Support
Parasitic infections occur when parasites—organisms that live off a host—invade the human body. These infections can affect various parts of the body, including the digestive tract, and cause a wide range of symptoms. At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, Dr. Tiffani Fries offers a functional medicine approach to diagnose and treat parasitic infections, restore gut health, and improve your overall well-being.
Understanding Parasitic Infections
Parasites can be transmitted through contaminated food or water, insect bites, contact with animals, or sexual contact. Some common intestinal parasites include:
Protozoa:
Single-celled organisms like Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Entamoeba histolytica.
Helminths:
Worms like roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms.
Common Symptoms of Parasitic Infections:
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of parasite, but may include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and gas
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Anal itching
- Nutrient deficiencies
The Salt Lake Functional Medicine Approach to Parasitic Infections
Dr. Fries, DC takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating parasitic infections. This may involve:
Detailed Assessment:
A thorough evaluation of your health history, symptoms, travel history, diet, and lifestyle.
Advanced Testing:
This may include comprehensive stool testing using PCR technology to identify specific parasites, as well as other tests to assess gut health and overall well-being.
Personalized Support Plans:
Based on your individual needs and test results, Dr. Fries, DC will develop a tailored plan that may include
Antiparasitic Therapy:
Using natural or pharmaceutical antiparasitic agents to eradicate the infection.
Gut Healing Protocols:
Implementing strategies to repair the gut lining, restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria, and reduce inflammation. This may involve dietary modifications, targeted supplementation, and lifestyle changes.
Immune Support:
Supporting the immune system to help fight off infection and prevent recurrence.
Addressing Contributing Factors:
Identifying and addressing any underlying factors that may have made you more susceptible to infection, such as poor diet, stress, or compromised gut health.
Restoring Gut Health and Well-being
At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, we’re committed to helping you overcome parasitic infections and restore optimal gut health. By addressing the root causes of the infection and supporting your body’s natural healing processes, we believe you can experience significant improvement in your digestive health and overall well-being.
