What is beaver fever?
My friend recently traveled abroad and got sick, and the doctor there mentioned 'beaver fever'. I've never heard of it. What exactly is beaver fever, and how do you get it?
5 answers
6 months ago
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Beaver fever is the common name for Giardiasis, which is a parasitic infection of the small intestine. It usually spreads through contaminated water, especially in wilderness areas. If you have severe watery diarrhea and stomach cramps, stop googling and go to a gastroenterologist.
6 months ago
I read that it causes really bad bloating, gas, and stomach pain after drinking untreated water. Has anyone else here ever caught this while traveling or trekking? I am feeling so paranoid about drinking water outside now, how long does it typically take to recover?
6 months ago
Actually yaar, it is just a funny name for a very annoying stomach infection called Giardiasis. It basically happens when you drink water contaminated with the Giardia parasite, like from open streams. Always use a proper filter or bottled water when hiking.
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Consult a internal medicine specialist
yrs exp
6 months ago
Look, don't get confused by the name 'fever', it is actually a waterborne parasitic infection. It causes severe loose motions and dehydration. Don't try any self-medication, go to a clinic and get a stool test done to start the right antibiotics.
5 months ago
Yes, it is Giardiasis, a diarrheal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. Please make sure to drink only boiled or purified water to prevent it.