Parasites are organisms that live off a host, and they can be found in a variety of places including water, soil, plants, and animals, including humans.

These organisms can cause a range of health problems, manage to stay inside you for long periods of time, and feed off your body. Here are ten parasitic organisms that can survive inside you:.

1. Tapeworms

Tapeworms are flat and ribbon-like worms that can grow to be several feet long and can live in the intestines of humans and other animals.

The tapeworm larvae can burrow into the tissues and form cysts, which can cause damage to various organs such as the liver and the brain. Symptoms of tapeworm infestations include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, weight loss, and dizziness.

2. Hookworms

Hookworms are parasites that live in the small intestine and feed on blood. They can cause a range of symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and anemia.

Hookworm infections usually occur through the penetration of the skin by the larvae, which are found in soil contaminated by feces from infected individuals. In severe cases, hookworm infections can lead to malnourishment, stunted growth, and cognitive impairment.

3. Pinworms

Pinworms are small, white worms that live in the lower intestine and lay their eggs around the anus, causing intense itching. These worms are highly contagious and can spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

Although they are not usually harmful, they can cause severe discomfort and sleep disturbances.

4. Giardia

Giardia is a protozoan parasite that lives in water and food contaminated with fecal matter. It is one of the most common parasites found in humans and can cause nausea, diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Giardia infections can last for several weeks, and some individuals experience chronic symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome and malabsorption syndrome.

5. Toxoplasma Gondii

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that infects both humans and animals. It is usually transmitted through contact with infected cat feces or by eating raw or undercooked meat from infected animals.

The parasite can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes. Pregnant women are especially at risk because the parasite can cause birth defects and miscarriages.

6. Schistosomes

Schistosomes are a type of flatworm that live in the veins of the intestines and the liver. They can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and liver damage.

Schistosomiasis is the disease caused by these parasites and is transmitted through contact with contaminated water.

7. Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the Leishmania genus. It is usually transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies and can cause a range of symptoms, including skin sores, fever, weight loss, and anemia.

Leishmaniasis can be fatal if left untreated, and there are no effective vaccines currently available.

8. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted parasite that infects both men and women. It can cause a wide range of symptoms, including itching, burning, and discharge.

Many people with the parasite do not experience any symptoms, and it can go undetected for years. If left untreated, trichomoniasis can lead to serious complications such as infertility in women.

9. Cryptosporidium

Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite found in water contaminated by cow or human feces. It can cause a range of symptoms, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and fever.

Immunocompromised individuals such as HIV-positive individuals and organ transplant recipients are at risk of developing chronic cryptosporidiosis, which can lead to severe dehydration and weight loss.

10. Echinococcus

Echinococcus is a tapeworm parasite that infects both humans and animals. It can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Most infections occur through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.

In severe cases, echinococcosis can lead to the formation of large cysts that can cause organ damage and even death.