Cyclospora infection is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite called cyclospora cayetanensis. It often spreads through contaminated food or water and can cause watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, and fatigue. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, MedStar Health can help diagnose the cause and recommend treatment.
What is cyclospora?
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a parasite that causes an intestinal infection called cyclosporiasis. Unlike bacteria or viruses, a parasite lives on or inside a host to survive.
After entering the body, cyclospora affects the small intestine, where it can interfere with digestion and lead to uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms. Because it is microscopic, it cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled in food or water.
Healthcare providers may refer to the illness as either a cyclospora infection or cyclosporiasis.
How do you get cyclospora?
People usually get cyclospora by eating food or drinking water contaminated with stool from an infected person. This is called fecal-oral transmission.
Direct person-to-person spread is uncommon. After cyclospora leaves the body in stool, it must mature in the environment for several days to a couple of weeks before it can infect someone else.
Cyclospora is most often linked to:
- Contaminated water
- Agricultural exposure
- Fresh produce eaten raw
- Food grown, washed, or handled in unsanitary conditions
What foods are commonly linked to cyclospora?
Cyclospora is most often associated with fresh produce. Foods commonly connected to outbreaks include:
- Fresh herbs, especially cilantro
- Leafy greens, including romaine, iceberg lettuce, and mixed greens
- Berries, such as raspberries and blackberries
- Vegetables, including snow peas and snap peas
Because these foods are often eaten raw, heat does not destroy the parasite before they are consumed.
Washing produce is still important, but it may not fully remove cyclospora. The parasite can cling to herbs and leafy greens, making routine rinsing less effective.
Symptoms and risk factors
Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure, but they can appear anywhere from two to 14 days later. The most common symptom is severe, watery diarrhea.
Other symptoms may include:
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Gas
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
Symptoms may come and go, and some people feel sick for weeks without treatment. If diarrhea is persistent or causing dehydration, medical evaluation is important.
How is cyclospora diagnosed?
Cyclospora symptoms can look like many other gastrointestinal infections, so symptoms alone are not enough to confirm the diagnosis. A stool test is needed.
Your provider may ask about:
- Your symptoms and when they started
- Recent travel
- Foods you have eaten, especially fresh produce
- Possible exposure to contaminated food or water
- Whether others around you have been sick
You may need more than one stool sample because the parasite may not appear in every sample.
Why does cyclospora require specialized stool testing?
Standard stool testing may miss cyclospora. Specialized laboratory methods, including special stains or molecular tests such as PCR-based stool panels, are often needed to identify the parasite.
Because of this, it is important to tell your provider about persistent watery diarrhea, recent travel, and possible food exposures. When cyclospora is suspected, the lab may need specific instructions to perform the right test.
Treatments for cyclospora
The standard treatment for cyclospora is trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, an antibiotic also known by brand names such as Bactrim, Septra, or Cotrim.
Many people begin to feel better within a few days of treatment. The medication helps stop the parasite from surviving in the intestines, giving the digestive system time to heal.
Supportive care is also important, especially if diarrhea has caused dehydration or weakness.
When should you see a doctor for cyclospora?
You should seek medical care if you have ongoing watery diarrhea, signs of dehydration, or digestive symptoms that are not improving.
Medical evaluation is especially important if you:
- Have diarrhea lasting more than a few days
- Have symptoms that come and go
- Feel weak, dizzy, or dehydrated
- Have a weakened immune system
- Recently traveled or may have eaten contaminated produce
How can you recover from cyclospora at home?
The following can help support recovery while treatment takes effect:
- Stay hydrated: Replace lost fluids with water, oral rehydration solutions, clear broths, diluted non-citrus juices, or caffeine-free herbal teas.
- Eat bland foods: Bananas, white rice, applesauce, toast, crackers, plain noodles, and boiled potatoes are often easier to tolerate.
- Avoid foods that may worsen symptoms: Dairy, spicy foods, greasy foods, and high-fiber foods may be harder to digest during recovery.
If you cannot keep fluids down, feel dizzy, or continue to have severe diarrhea, use MedStar eVisit, go to one of our Urgent Care locations, or contact your primary care physician or advanced practice provider (APP).
Download the MedStar eVisit – Telehealth app or log in on your computer to see the next available physician or APP. If you have an emergency or urgent medical question, do not use virtual visits. Call 911 immediately.
Frequently asked questions
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What should I do if I suspect I have cyclospora?
If you suspect you have cyclospora due to symptoms like severe diarrhea and bloating, reach out to a healthcare provider promptly. At MedStar Health, our care team is here to support you with diagnosis and treatment options tailored to your needs.
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How does MedStar Health support patients with cyclospora infection?
At MedStar Health, we prioritize your health and safety. Our compassionate team provides thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and effective treatments for cyclospora infections. We are here to support you every step of the way.
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Are there any long-term effects of cyclospora infection?
Most individuals recover completely from cyclospora without lasting effects. However, severe cases can lead to dehydration or prolonged gastrointestinal issues. If symptoms persist, it's essential to seek medical advice.
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Can cyclospora be prevented?
Preventing cyclospora involves practicing safe food handling and hygiene. Always wash fresh produce thoroughly and ensure drinking water is clean. Being cautious with food sources, especially when dining out, can significantly reduce your risk of infection. -
How does cyclospora affect my health?
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal infection known as cyclosporiasis. This infection can lead to severe symptoms such as watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to consult your MedStar Health care team for proper diagnosis and treatment.