For example, tapeworms can absorb vitamin B12 from your body, which is vital for red blood cell production.

4. Unexpected weight loss (or weight gain)

It seems that losing weight without changing a diet is possible for some people.

Not sure if you are going to like the method, though. The others happen to gain weight due to cravings triggered by parasite-induced imbalances. These changes are often subtle and build up over time.

🩺 Why it happens: Some parasites consume your nutrients directly, while others may affect insulin regulation, hunger hormones, or inflammation—all of which can influence weight.

5. Skin irritations and rashes with no clear trigger

Itchy skin, hives, or eczema-like patches that flare up without warning?

Parasitic infections can prompt inflammatory reactions in the skin, even if the parasite is in your gut. This is especially true with parasites that disrupt the immune system, leading to allergic-type responses. 🩺 Why it happens: Your body produces antibodies to fight parasites, which can trigger skin flare-ups—similar to how it responds to allergens.

6. Joint and muscle pain without injury

Parasitic infections can sometimes lead to stiff joints or muscular pain that isn’t explained by physical activity or autoimmune conditions. 🩺 Why it happens: This happens more frequently with parasites that move beyond the digestive tract.

They can invade muscle tissue, joints, and bones, leading to inflammation and pain.

7. Mood swings, anxiety, or brain fog

If you’ve ever felt “off” mentally—foggy thinking, irritability, or a dip in mood—it might not just be stress.

The gut and brain are closely connected via the gut-brain axis. That’s why parasites that disrupt your microbiome can influence your mental health as well. 🩺 Why it happens: A disturbed gut can lead to reduced production of serotonin (a key mood-regulating hormone) and create low-grade inflammation that affects your nervous system.

8. Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Noticing a yellow tint in your skin or the whites of your eyes? That’s called jaundice, and while it’s often linked to liver issues, certain parasites—especially those affecting the liver or blood—can be a hidden cause.

🩺 Why it happens: Parasites that target the liver can block bile flow, which leads to a buildup of bilirubin—a yellow pigment normally processed by the liver. When this pigment accumulates, it shows up in your skin and eyes. In rare instances, roundworms may exit through other orifices, like the mouth or the nose.

This can occur when the worms migrate from the intestines, especially during heavy infestations or under certain conditions like trauma or anesthesia.

While it’s true that travel—especially to areas with unsafe water or food—increases risk, many cases are picked up locally.

Common domestic risks include:

• Handling raw meat without proper handwashing;
• Contact with pet waste or contaminated soil;
• Consuming unwashed products;
• Poor kitchen hygiene.

So, now that you’re armed with knowledge about the sneaky ways parasites can show up in your life, here’s something else to keep on your radar. People everywhere are discovering surprising biohacks that completely transform their well-being, from simple tricks to fall asleep in minutes to clever ways of dodging seasonal bugs.