Could I Have a Parasite? Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Are there any parasites?

I have recently been feeding stray cats, and they tend to rub against me.
One day, my family asked me to feed them some tuna from my tuna pancake, which I did twice.
After the first feeding, I didn't think much of it and touched the pancake again for the second feeding.
I believe I may have touched the cat's mouth during the first feeding.
It's been about a week since then.
The day before yesterday, after eating instant noodles outside, I felt a sudden stomach ache when the air conditioning was turned on, and I rushed to the bathroom.
Initially, my stool was hard, which caused pain in my anus during bowel movements, possibly indicating an anal fissure.
Recently, I've also experienced unexplained sharp pains in my anus, and I've been dealing with constipation for the past few years.
This morning, I noticed itching around my anus.
Is there a chance of infection? Could the anal itching be caused by the anal fissure due to constipation? Can the human body resist parasites? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult, and how should I explain my symptoms? Thank you for your response, doctor.

Rong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/08

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

1.
The parasite that cats can transmit to humans is Toxoplasma gondii; however, it is not easily transmitted and is not contracted through oral ingestion from cats, but rather through ingestion of contaminated feces.
Therefore, as long as one does not consume cat feces, transmission is unlikely.
2.
Based on your description, it seems more like an anal fissure.
The typical symptoms include pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding, and there may also be itching during the healing process.
The common causes are often constipation or diarrhea.
The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, and warm sitz baths can be helpful.
Over-the-counter hemorrhoid suppositories can also be used.
If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a physician.
If you wish to seek medical attention, you can visit a colorectal or gastroenterology clinic.

Reply Date: 2019/01/08

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms that are causing you concern, particularly in relation to your interactions with stray cats and your recent dietary habits. Let's break down your symptoms and address your questions regarding the possibility of a parasitic infection, as well as the appropriate steps to take for diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Gastrointestinal Pain and Changes in Bowel Habits: You mentioned experiencing abdominal pain after eating, which led to a bowel movement that was painful due to hard stools. This could indicate constipation, which is a common issue that can lead to discomfort and even anal fissures (tears in the skin around the anus) if the stool is hard and difficult to pass.

2. Anal Pain and Itching: The pain and itching around the anus can indeed be related to constipation and the presence of fissures. However, these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions, including hemorrhoids, infections, or even parasitic infections.

3. Concerns About Parasites: Given your interactions with stray cats, it is reasonable to consider the possibility of a parasitic infection, such as toxoplasmosis or other zoonotic parasites. However, the symptoms you describe—abdominal pain, constipation, and anal discomfort—are not specific to parasitic infections and can arise from a variety of gastrointestinal issues.

When to Seek Help
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention. Here are some guidelines on when to see a doctor:
- Persistent Symptoms: If you continue to experience abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or anal discomfort for more than a few days.

- Severe Symptoms: If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or signs of infection (such as fever).

- Changes in Bowel Movements: If you notice significant changes in your stool, such as blood or mucus, or if you have prolonged constipation.

Which Specialist to See
For your symptoms, you would typically want to see a gastroenterologist, a specialist in digestive system disorders. When you make an appointment, you can explain your symptoms as follows:
- "I've been experiencing abdominal pain, constipation, and anal discomfort. I also have concerns about potential exposure to parasites from feeding stray cats. I would like to have a thorough evaluation to rule out any infections or gastrointestinal issues."

Can the Body Resist Parasites?
The human body has various defense mechanisms to resist infections, including parasitic infections. However, certain factors can compromise these defenses, such as a weakened immune system, poor nutrition, or existing health conditions. If a parasitic infection does occur, it can often be treated effectively with medication.

Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms could be related to constipation and anal fissures, it is wise to consider the possibility of a parasitic infection, especially given your recent interactions with stray cats. Seeking medical advice from a gastroenterologist will help you get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In the meantime, focus on maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and managing stress, as these can all contribute to better gastrointestinal health.

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