What is Parasites? And what are its Types? There are numerous ways to contract parasites, and in most cases, they can be treated with oral medications. For many, just hearing the diagnosis of parasites can cause make the heart to skip a beat while in shock. It can be pretty upsetting, but it’s important to assure your patients not to panic, as they are far from alone in your condition. It is not true that parasites only thrive in third world countries. Many people have parasites, and many have no idea they even have the parasite unless symptoms develop. Related: How to Stay Awake to Study for Nursing Exams What is a Parasite? Any organism that lives and feeds off another organism is a parasite. These are usually worms, and they are constantly feeding off your nutrition. In some cases, you could consume a normal amount of food, and feel hungry after eating, due to the parasites, this can cause the inability to gain weight, or extreme weight loss. Parasite Types Roundworms Tapeworms Pinworms Whipworms Hookworms Due to the variety of worms, the range of problems can be extremely varied. Parasites come in different shapes and sizes, and some can create serious problems unless treated promptly. They may feed off your red blood cells, causing anemia. They may lay eggs that can create itching, irritability and insomnia. Most often you will experience intestinal issues. Maybe you have tried numerous things to help with stomach problems, and yet nothing seems to help. How People Contract Parasites There are almost as many ways to get parasites as there are parasites. Contaminated food or water is probably the number one cause. Undercooked meat is a very common source of parasite contamination, as well as water from other countries. Fruits and vegetables that are imported can also harbor parasites. Even if they are not visible, the larva may be there, unhatched. Some forms of parasites enter the body by traveling through the bottom of the foot, there is a multitude of entry ports for the pesky little things, and however in most cases they are easily treated.