What is the bulinus snail?

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

Found in freshwater areas, the bulinus snail itself is not harmful, but overseas it can carry a parasite called schistosomiasis, which can cause lots of trouble. You’ve probably heard of the most common problem they cause in the U.S. - swimmer’s itch - but if you are infected internationally with schistosomiasis, it can attack your bladder, liver, lungs, intestine and brain, leading to internal organ damage.
This content originally appeared on doctoroz.com

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Parasitic Infections

Parasitic infections begin when a person comes into contact with a disease-causing parasite like tapeworms, roundworms. You can contract these types of infections through contact with contaminated food, soil or water, often in tropical regions. Symptoms of parasitic infections can include digestive problems, irritability, chronic fatigue, acne, rashes, sleep problems, anemia, muscle cramps, allergies and headaches. While there is no vaccine, treatment for parasites can include medications or topical applications.

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