Various types of parasite tests, including stool tests, blood tests, pinworm tests, and swab culture tests, can be used to diagnose and treat parasitic infections. Symptoms of parasites include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and itching or discomfort in the anal area. Testing a stool sample is the most effective method, but blood tests and swab tests can also be used. Pinworm tests are conducted on individuals experiencing an itchy anus. Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
There are several types of parasite tests used to diagnose and treat parasitic infection; these include stool tests, blood tests, pinworm tests, and swab culture tests. Many of these test options can be ordered online and tested in a remote lab, although most doctors can also conduct tests for parasites. The type of test typically depends on the type of parasite an individual is thought to have.
When the parasites enter the body, they feed on human tissue and the protein that surrounds the nerves. Proper diagnosis is vital to effective pest control and treatment. Those who work with young children, have weak immune systems, possess inadequate sanitation or practice lackluster hygiene are at the highest risk of contracting various types of parasites. Symptoms of parasites include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and itching or discomfort in the anal area.
Testing a stool sample is the most common and most effective of all parasite tests. The sample is placed on a glass slide and inserted under a microscope for magnification, which can detect the tiny worm-like creatures. An analysis of the stool sample can also identify some bodily functions that have been impaired by the infection, including red and white blood cell counts, fatty acid crystals, and undigested tissue.
There are two main types of blood tests that can detect parasites in your system. An antigen test can identify the protein composition of a parasite. This test can be conducted by drawing blood or directly through a stool sample. The other most frequently used blood test is a blood antibody test, which can determine whether an individual has been exposed to a parasite in the past. It cannot detect a present infection, but may be able to shed light on lingering health problems associated with a past infection.
Parasite tests known as pinworm tests are usually conducted on individuals who are experiencing an itchy anus. The test involves placing a strip of duct tape over the anus, removing it, and analyzing the residue left on the tape. Pinworms traditionally don’t show up in stool samples, and because they tend to gather at night in the external anal area, this test is the most effective way to detect their presence.
Swab tests are parasite tests that are usually conducted when other test methods have produced a negative result. Because parasites don’t always show up in blood or stool samples, a swab test is often the second line of testing. A swab can take a skin culture for easier analysis and may be able to better identify a parasitic infection.
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