Two types of intestinal parasites are protozoans, which include amoebas, and helminths, or worms. The degree of damage to the host depends on the type and number of parasites present and on the age and health of the host. The female roundworm, for example, can release some 200,000 eggs a day. However, the eggs must incubate in soil to become viable. The number of roundworms a person carries depends on the number of viable eggs or larvae ingested.
Many people play host to a few roundworms without even being aware of it.
But a large number of roundworms can cause serious intestinal blockage. Some common symptoms of intestinal parasites are abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, a swollen abdomen, fatigue, and chronic indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation. Weight loss, restless sleep, itching, wheezing, and fever may also be indications of parasites. Of course, these symptoms can be indicative of a number of illnesses. But parasites can be diagnosed by means of several stool examinations.