Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON PARASITIC INFECTIONS

1. Are we subject to parasitic infection in Europe?

Yes, because of modern transportation systems, labor movements and foreign travel. All these factors contribute to an increased risk of parasitic infections.

2. What are the advantages/risks of using antibiotics vs. herbal remedies?

Antibiotics depress the immune system while herbal products are more friendly to the body's immune system.

3.Could hair loss, weight loss or memory loss be related to parasitic infections?

Definitely related. Parasite induced variables include their toxic, and metabolic byproducts and chemicals affecting these and immune related imbalances.

4.Could intestinal parasites cause diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel, cramps, gas, bloating, bleeding, itching, poor digestion, or malabsorption?

That is what intestinal parasites normally do, by causing direct injury to healthy tissue or by interfering with normal intestinal function.

5.Could intestinal parasites cause fatigue, allergies, muscle/joint pain, skin abnormalities/sores/dermatitis, headache, insomnia, nausea, dry cough, or lymph blockage?

This is often the case. Toxic byproducts of the parasites can induce any of these symptoms which may be related to cell-mediated immune dysfunctions.

6.Does the water in the Europe have parasites?

About one-fourth of domestic households carry parasites in their water. About one-fifth of U.S. households supplied by surface water treatment plants will introduce such parasites as Giardia and Cryptosporidiumin tap water.

7.Can pets carry/transmit human parasites?

Yes. Certain pets (particularly dogs and cats) carry intermediate stages of some tapeworm parasites that infect humans as adults upon close (intimate) contact, such as kissing or licking. Pets may also be infested with arthopod ecto-parasites (mites, fleas, ticks, etc.) that may cause injury directly or by transmitting pathogens of diseases infecting them to humans. At PTE you can also test for pet and other animal parasites using the same kit and procedures.

8.How can I get my pet tested?

You can get your pet tested by following the same procedures for testing on humans.

9.Could antibiotics taken for other reasons affect parasites infections ?

They usually do in all ages because they compromise the immune system as well as the balance of the intestinal flora by killing off the good bacteria.

10.Could balanced emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical status help fight parasites?

These variables are usually interrelated. There appears to be a definate correlation between the physical, mental, and emotional levels of organization in the context of healing modalities.

11.How can you verify that your feeling of being parasitized reflects reality?

You can verify this feeling of parasitic infection in your body by sending specimens for objective testing at the PCI Europe. You may initiate this yourself or by going through your health care practitioner (MD, ND, DC, etc.)

12.Can I get tested for parasites at PCI Europe?

Yes. Anyone from anywhere in Europe can be tested for parasites through our mailable package where you collect the specimen. It will normally take 10 to 21 days from the time the specimen is received by our US lab to get the results back depending on which test has been completed.  Anyone can send a specimen to be tested but results need to be sent to a appropraite practitioner.

13.How do I get tested?

You may order the PTE collection and transport package by ordering from our online shop or calling the Parasite Center, Inc. Europe on 00 44 (0)1924 242 851. After receiving the package, open it and make sure everything is there. The package includes 2 specimen collecting containers, 2 vials, an address label, a list of instructions, and a requisition form. Please read the instructions carefully to properly prepare for collecting 2 separate stool specimens on 2 separate days at least 1-2 days apart. The fixative is good for a few months. Please fill out the Requisition Form completely and mail back with the specimen vials after authorization.

14.How much does the test cost and how to proceed?

Please go to our tests page for all tests and prices, and our products page to order the corresponding testing package. If you order a test, you will be asked if you want to purchase the testing package.

15.How soon will I get the test results back?

Test results will be made available to your referring practitioner (who you indicated on the Requisition Form) 10 days from receipt of the samples at the lab. All swab cultures must allow 2-3 weeks for results. If you do not have a referring practitioner, results will be released to you once you have spoken to one of our in house practitioners, who will interpret the results for you.