Au Revoir Parasites
I’d like to introduce you to Boris and Boris Jnr.
They’ve recently joined my life.
Perhaps you’re already acquainted with the Boris’ but know them by their more common names of Dientamoeba Fragilis and Blastocystis Hominis. Two microscopic parasites that are found in the intestinal tract of humans. And right at this very minute, they’re paying me a very unwelcomed visit.
I’m not happy!
Although as I say those 3 words, I also have to admit to you that a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. This icky news has actually given me an answer AND with it, an opportunity to finally fix the problems I'm having .
These parasites could potentially be the root cause of my developing Hashimoto’s. Holy cow!
Many people with parasites show no symptoms whatsoever, however some of us, including me, suffer a range of symptoms including diarrhoea/constipation, abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas and pain (getting personal here, but this has been me EVERY DAY since January 2015!) Other symptoms may also include nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, weight-loss (of course I didn’t experience this symptom), chronic fatigue, depression, low-grade fever and anal itching.
Now it’s time to say au revoir to the Boris boys.
So what’s my plan, I hear you ask?
I have a full arsenal up my sleeve, and will let you know what I try and how it responds as I go, but first off is my least favourite. In doing the merry-go-round with both my GP and naturopath, I’ve unfortunately had to pull up my big girl panties and take the antibiotic route. I say “unfortunately” because I really, truly HATE taking antibiotics. I don’t even like taking Panadol due to the havoc these drugs cause in our gut. However, at both their insistence, this is my first step.
***UPDATE*** So I’ve taken the full course of antibiotics. I have no idea if the boys have been killed off, but my symptoms have definitely improved. Hoorah! The discomfort and bloating is still there but nowhere near as intense as it has been, which has been such a relief it almost brings tears to my eyes when I think how long I've been feeling this way.
The bad news was how my body reacted taking the antibiotics. Nausea, dizziness, complete lack of energy and the worst part….my taste buds completely changed. The thought of my morning coffee sent me shuddering and cravings for carbs and sugar intensified tenfold! It’s taken me a good 2 weeks from finishing the tablets for things to go back to some sort of normal.
One of the things that got me through this "ugly" period with as much ease and grace as I could muster was tea. Herbal tea. In copious amounts. And in particular, this organic fennel, peppermint and rose tea.
Oh..and lots of naps and my favourite books.
I’ll be getting tested for parasites again soon, but in the meantime, I’ve been trying many other “holistic” remedies….stay tuned…
...if you want.