I know this sounds like a TV series, but here in Mexico, it is a true history; although not as terrifying, it still can lead to many different infections. So, let's talk about them.
One common is Giardiasis, caused by a parasite called Giardia Lamblia; what a fancy name, but it could cause diarrhea, nausea, bloating, abdominal discomfort, or pain. Usually, it is transmitted by contaminated food or water, so it can be acquired by drinking water, for instance, from rivers or contaminated meals. It is usually easy to diagnose clinically and is relatively easy to treat.
Another common parasite infection found in Latin America is taeniasis. Caused by Taenia Solium, you get infected by consuming poorly cooked pork meats. When the larvae are ingested, goes to the small bowel for their maturation and be converted into an adult Taenia within 2 months; after this period, their eggs migrate into the anus, where they are loosed through feces. Then, pigs or humans can be contaminated again.
Such eggs also have the ability to be converted into oncospheres, which can penetrate the intestinal wall; after this, they may migrate to muscles and other organs and become CYSTICERCOS. At this point, this infection becomes risky because cysticercosis can affect the brain, causing CNS cysticercosis, a hazardous disease. So, it is an excellent idea to be treated against some common parasites after visiting Mexico.
On the other hand, this is not the end of the history of parasitic infections, and here is the presentation of Amebiasis. This is caused by Entamoeba Histolytic. It can be acquired through feces-contaminated water, vegetables, or fruits not adequately cleaned or cooked. This infection may cause nasty diarrhea with mucus and/or blood, continuous abdominal cramps, loss of appetite, and a general unwell feeling. On the other hand, it also may lead to several complications, such as a liver abscess. Also, in some instances, it may cause lung invasion, leading to lung parenchyma necrosis. Also, even rare but possible, it is associated with perianal skin ulcers and even brain invasion.
So, once you begin to read about some of these nasty parasite infections, my recommendation is: If you have diarrhea that is profuse or has mucus or blood on it, associated with right upper abdominal pain, or continuous abdominal cramps, or coughing, please call immediately to a doctor. Also, If you begin with these symptoms while you are still here in Mexico, please look for medical attention as soon as you can because prompt attention and the use of the correct medicines may be the difference from just nasty diarrhea only to other dangerous complications explained above.
Y que viva Mexico cab…!!