There are many connections between parasites and Ulcerative colitis. In fact, parasites can even influence the response of the immune system. Inflammation of the colon can destroy healthy cells, causing ulcers. In the past, doctors believed that parasitic worms lowered the immune response and decreased discomfort. Now, however, new research suggests that parasites may contribute to the disease. Ultimately, finding a cure for Ulcerative colitis will help people who suffer from this chronic ailment.
The prevalence of intestinal parasites in UC patients and controls was similar, with Giardia lamblia being the most common. However, the difference between the two groups was not significant. Infection with Blastocystis spp., Chilomastix mesnili, and Iodamoeba buetschlii were found to be common in UC patients and in controls.
Intestinal parasites are extremely common, with over one billion people worldwide harboring parasitic intestinal infections. These infections may cause abdominal pain and weight loss and are a serious public health problem. The different types of intestinal parasites can lead to inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction, and even prolapse. While these conditions are common worldwide, they rarely occur in the United States unless there is a specific risk factor. Intestinal parasites include helminths, protozoa, and trichuriasis. Although these parasites predominantly live in the small intestine, they can also infect the large intestine.
Many experts believe that the primary cause of Ulcerative Colitis is a problem with the immune system. When your body detects an infection, it releases white blood cells. These cells attempt to destroy it. As a result, inflammation and redness of the colon results. When this occurs, the immune system has mistakenly identified a friendly bacteria. Because the immune system mistakenly identifies this bacteria as an infection, it attacks the healthy ones in the intestine.