A parasite is an organism that lives on or in the host organism. It also gets its food from or at the expense of its host. Parasitic infections can be unpleasant as they sound. They are much more common than we think. In fact, in most cases, these infections are the reason behind a lot of health issues that people suffer from. It could be a parasitic infection for all you know that affects your physical, mental, and digestive health.Types of ParasitesRoundwormsTapewormsPinwormsWhipwormsHookwormsLiceGiardiaMosquitosBedbugsScabiesParasites can come in many shape and sizes. Once inside your body it can make you feel hungry, because it feeds on the nourishment from your body. Whereas there are some that feeds off your red blood cells, and cause you anemia. Since it is all the things we feel from within, many times, people do not even realise that they are suffering from a parasitic infection and that it could lad to chronic health problems. It is also important to look out for causes, signs, and symptoms that indicate a parasitic infection to start treatment as soon as possible.How Can You Get Intestinal Parasites?If you live in or visit an area which is known to have parasitesDuring an international travelIf you consume contaminated or unclean food or waterIf you eat uncooked meatsIf you maintain a poor hygieneIf you have a weakened immune system or HIV or AIDSIf you work closely with animals, or handle soil or other waste materialOnce you are infected with a parasite, it is easy to pass it along to others. If you have a parasite and you do not wash your hands after using the restroom, you can easily pass microscopic parasite eggs onto anything that you touch. It could also come from the common places like the bathroom door handle, a salt shaker, your phone, or just anything that you touch.How Would You Know If You Have A Parasite?Here are 10 signs that will help you identify if you have a parasitic infection in your body.1. Digestive IssuesUnexplained constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, heartburn, or nausea could signal a parasitic infection. Intestinal parasites settle in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, triggering immune responses that cause a range of symptoms. Many of these are often mistaken for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Unfortunately, routine lab tests may not always detect parasites, and more sensitive diagnostics like the GI-MAP test are needed for accurate identification.2. Chronic Fatigue & ExhaustionParasites can drain your body's nutrients, leading to persistent fatigue, mood changes, headaches, and even memory issues. Some, like Giardia, can cause chronic fatigue syndrome, making it difficult for your body to absorb essential nutrients like iron and B12. This deficiency results in unexplained lethargy, which can disrupt daily life.3. Skin ProblemsMysterious rashes, hives, eczema, or rosacea may be linked to parasites. When parasites trigger an immune response, your body produces more Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, leading to allergic reactions that manifest as stubborn skin issues. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping, a parasitic infection might be the hidden cause.4. Muscle & Joint PainSome parasites release inflammatory toxins that can settle in muscles and joints, causing pain and stiffness. A specific parasite, Trichinella, found in undercooked meat, can migrate to muscles, leading to persistent aches that don’t respond to usual treatments.5. AnemiaCertain parasites consume red blood cells or cause internal bleeding, resulting in iron deficiency anemia. This leads to fatigue, weakness, and pale skin, as your body struggles to function with reduced oxygen levels.6. Constant Hunger or Loss of AppetiteFeeling hungry all the time, despite eating regularly, could indicate a tapeworm or other parasite feeding off your nutrients. On the other hand, nausea and gas can suppress appetite, causing unintentional weight loss.7. ItchingSome parasites burrow under the skin or lay eggs, leading to intense itching. Pinworms, for example, cause persistent itching around the anus, especially at night. The immune system's response to parasites can also trigger allergic reactions, worsening the irritation.8. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)Grinding your teeth at night could be linked to toxins released by parasites. These toxins interfere with neurotransmitters, triggering anxiety, nervousness, and involuntary teeth grinding while sleeping.9. Insomnia & Sleep DisturbancesParasites are often more active at night, causing physical discomfort and disrupting sleep. If you're experiencing frequent wake-ups or unexplained restlessness, an underlying parasitic infection might be the reason.10. Bloating & GasParasites like Giardia can lead to excessive gas and bloating, making your stomach feel constantly distended. The severity of symptoms varies, and while some people experience major discomfort, others may have a parasitic infection without any noticeable symptoms.