Who is most at risk for cryptosporidiosis?

Older adults (ages 75 years and older) People who take care of other people with cryptosporidiosis. International travelers. Backpackers, hikers, and campers who drink unfiltered, untreated water.

What is Crypto disease?

Cryptosporidium is a parasite that causes a diarrheal illness called cryptosporidiosis (the parasite and the disease are often called “Crypto”). Crypto is a common waterborne illness and is the most common cause of recreational water illness in the United States.

What are the symptoms of cryptosporidiosis?

The most common symptom of cryptosporidiosis is watery diarrhea….Symptoms include:

• Watery diarrhea.
• Stomach cramps or pain.
• Dehydration.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Fever.
• Weight loss.

What are the causes of delirium?

Possible causes include:

• Certain medications or drug toxicity.
• Alcohol or drug intoxication or withdrawal.
• A medical condition, such as a stroke, heart attack, worsening lung or liver disease, or an injury from a fall.
• Metabolic imbalances, such as low sodium or low calcium.
• Severe, chronic or terminal illness.

Why is cryptosporidiosis an important disease?

Cryptosporidiosis is considered to be one of the most important diseases causing an intestinal infection to humans and animals [1]. The illness is primarily in mild diarrhea to severe in immune-compromised person, especially in HIV/AIDS, and patients who received immunosuppressive drugs.

How does Cryptosporidium spread from person to person?

Cryptosporidiosis is spread though the feces (poop) of infected humans and animals. An infected person can shed Cryptosporidium once symptoms begin and for weeks after symptoms stop.

What is Cryptosporidium protozoa?

Cryptosporidiosis is an intestinal infection caused by Cryptosporidium, a protozoan parasite. The main symptoms are abdominal cramping and diarrhea. People acquire the infection by consuming contaminated water or food or by having contact with infected people or animals.

What is Cyclospora infection?

What is Cyclospora infection? Cyclospora is a microscopic (tiny, not seen without a microscope) parasite that can affect the intestinal tract and cause diarrhea (loose stool/poop) in those who get infected. People get infected when they eat or drink food or water contaminated with the parasite.

How does cryptosporidiosis affect the human body?

In most healthy people, a cryptosporidium infection produces a bout of watery diarrhea. The infection usually goes away within a week or two. If you have a compromised immune system, a cryptosporidium infection can become life-threatening without treatment.

Can dehydration cause delirium?

The cause of dehydration is multifactorial, related to swallowing difficulty, lack of thirst, cognitive impairment, physical limitations (including restraints), and misuse of diuretics (3). Dehydration is both a predisposing and precipitating factor for delirium or acute confusional state (4).

Can constipation cause delirium?

In elderly patients who may be confused, constipation may manifest as dehydration or nausea and may result in fecal impaction or bowel obstruction. This can result in delirium, increased length of stay in hospital, and increased morbidity and mortality.