This summer, thousands of people across the country have gotten sick after eating food contaminated with a parasite called Cyclospora. Explosive diarrhea is the main symptom of the foodborne illness, known as cyclosporiais. If you get sick, when should you see your healthcare provider? Here, Keley Brennan, Duke Health Nurse Practitioner who sees patients at Duke Health Family Medicine Mooresville and Duke Health Primary Care Tall Oaks, explains what you need to know about cyclosporiasis and how to keep you and your family healthy.
What is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite found in human feces that causes intestinal illness when ingested. It is not contagious or spread through person-to-person contact.
Where is Cyclospora found?
Cyclospora is typically ingested after eating raw produce, such as leafy greens, fruits like raspberries, and herbs. “Outbreaks are most common during spring and summer months, likely because we’re eating more produce during this time,” said Brennan.
The only way to kill Cyclospora is by cooking your produce, heating it to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit. Scrubbing your produce with a brush and discarding the outer leaves of lettuce and cabbage may reduce your risk, but it won’t remove the parasite from the tiny crevices on the surface of foods like raspberries.
What are the symptoms of Cyclospora infection?
The most common symptom is frequent and sometimes explosive diarrhea. “Cyclospora attacks the lining of your intestines, which prevents the absorption of fluid and nutrients from food,” said Brennan. The buildup of fluid and unabsorbed nutrients causes watery diarrhea, while the inflammation and irritation to your intestinal lining can make it “explosive.”
Other common symptoms of cyclosporiasis include:
- Stomach cramping
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
It can take two days to two weeks for symptoms to show up after eating food contaminated with Cyclospora, and symptoms can last for a few days, up to weeks or months. Some people with Cyclospora may not show any symptoms, explained Brennan.
Should I see a primary care provider for Cyclospora?
If left untreated, chronic diarrhea can leave you severely dehydrated, which can lead to serious health complications. If you experience diarrhea or vomiting for more than a few days, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or visit urgent care. “If you already have malabsorption problems or other gastrointestinal issues, or if you are immunocompromised, you should reach out to your provider right away,” Brennan added. A healthcare provider can prescribe an antibiotic to clear up the infection and antidiarrheal medications to stop the diarrhea.
Whether you choose to see a healthcare provider, do your best to stay hydrated, Brennan said. Drink room-temperature liquids, like electrolyte drinks, broths, or coconut water. Limit caffeine and carbonated beverages and avoid greasy or spicy foods. Eating smaller meals and snacks every few hours, such as applesauce, rice, toast, grilled chicken breast, or bananas may help you stay nourished without worsening the diarrhea or nausea.
“If you’re unsure of what to do, reach out to your provider,” Brennan advised. “They can guide you in the right direction.”
