Parasites in the USA: A Hidden Health Concern

Most doctors assume that parasites are rare in the United States. However, my experience has shown otherwise. Over the past 25 years, I have diagnosed and treated numerous parasitic infections that were missed by both general practitioners and gastroenterologists.

The reality is that many doctors don’t routinely test for parasites, believing they are uncommon in the U.S. But if you don’t look for something, you won’t find it. At our clinic, we conduct extensive parasite testing on every patient, and while parasites may not be extremely common, we do detect and treat them regularly.

How Do People in the U.S. Get Parasites?

Many assume that parasites are only contracted by drinking from streams or traveling to distant, exotic locations. While these factors can increase risk, most of the patients I’ve treated have had no such history.

Our modern food system is global, meaning we consume produce, meat, and seafood imported from all over the world. Additionally, people travel frequently, bringing back microorganisms from various regions. This means parasites can reach us—we don’t always have to go to them.

Common Parasites Found in the U.S.

When most doctors think of parasites, they usually consider Giardia, which is often contracted from contaminated water sources. However, there are many other microscopic parasites that standard stool tests don’t check for, including:

• Blastocystis hominis
• Dientamoeba fragilis
• Entamoeba coli
• Endolimax nana

These parasites are invisible to the naked eye and can only be detected under a microscope.

The larger parasites, like worms, are much rarer in the U.S. These include:

• Ascaris (roundworm)
• Necator (hookworm)
• Taenia (tapeworm)

While these worms do exist, they are not as common as microscopic parasites.

How Do You Know If You Have Parasites?

Parasitic infections can cause symptoms like diarrhea, gas, bloating, and abnormal intestinal movement, but so can many other digestive disorders.

Surprisingly, most people who believe they have parasites actually don’t. Many patients mistake undigested food particles, like bean sprouts or fiber strands, for worms. The only reliable way to confirm a parasitic infection is through comprehensive stool DNA testing, which most doctors don’t routinely perform.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Parasites?

If you are experiencing unexplained digestive issues and want to rule out parasites, specialized testing is essential. Our clinic has extensive experience diagnosing and treating parasitic infections, and if your symptoms are caused by something else, we will help you find the underlying issue.

If you need help, contact us, and we’ll guide you toward the right diagnosis and treatment. Parasites may be more common than you think, but with the right approach, they can be effectively treated.