Q. A friend of mine traveled in Costa Rica and now doctors think she has something called “jardia.” What can be done to cure it?
A. Giardia lamblia is a single-celled intestinal parasite that is a common hazard for travelers. Drinking untreated water from ponds, lakes, rivers or streams in the U.S. can also cause infection.
Giardia may lead to digestive distress, including diarrhea, nausea, cramps and flatulence. Doctors usually treat the infection with a prescription antimicrobial drug called metronidazole or a similar medicine called tinidazole. People taking such drugs must avoid alcohol during the five days of treatment for Giardia. Pregnant women should not take either medication.
