Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine.
People become infected after swallowing food or water contaminated with the parasite. In the United States, outbreaks are most commonly linked to contaminated fresh produce.
Unlike most stomach viruses, Cyclospora infections often last much longer and frequently require prescription treatment.
Symptoms usually develop 2 to 14 days after exposure.
The most common symptoms include:
One of the most recognizable features of Cyclospora is that symptoms may improve for several days before returning again.
If your diarrhea has lasted more than a few days or continues to come and go, it's time to be evaluated.
Unfortunately, there isn't a symptom that's unique to Cyclospora.
Many conditions—including viral gastroenteritis, food poisoning, Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli, Giardia, and inflammatory bowel disease—can cause similar symptoms.
A healthcare provider will consider:
If Cyclospora is suspected, specialized stool testing may be recommended.
Cyclospora cannot always be identified on a routine stool culture.
Your healthcare provider may order:
At WestsideMed, our providers determine which tests are appropriate based on your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination to avoid unnecessary testing while identifying serious conditions that require treatment.
The standard treatment is the prescription antibiotic:
Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX)
Most patients begin improving within several days after treatment starts.
In addition to antibiotics, treatment may include:
If you're allergic to sulfa medications, your provider will discuss alternative management options.
Schedule an appointment if you have:
Early evaluation can help determine whether your illness is viral, bacterial, parasitic, or related to another medical condition.
Go to the nearest emergency department immediately if you develop:
Although no method is perfect, you can reduce your risk by:
Not usually. Unlike many stomach viruses, Cyclospora generally isn't spread directly from person to person.
Some infections eventually resolve without treatment, but symptoms can last for weeks or even months and often return. Treatment typically shortens the illness.
Past outbreaks have been linked to:
Most produce is safe to eat, but contamination can occasionally occur during growing or processing.
At WestsideMed, we understand that persistent diarrhea isn't just inconvenient—it can disrupt work, school, travel, and family life. Our providers take the time to evaluate your symptoms, review your medical history, and determine whether testing is needed to identify the underlying cause.
Patients can receive:
Our goal is to provide evidence-based care while avoiding unnecessary tests or medications.
WestsideMed is an independent primary care and urgent care practice serving the Atlanta community. The practice is committed to delivering accessible, evidence-based healthcare focused on prevention, early diagnosis, and patient education.
Our providers care for patients of all ages and routinely evaluate acute illnesses, chronic conditions, preventive health concerns, and occupational medicine needs. Every recommendation is based on current clinical guidelines and tailored to the individual patient.
Whether you're experiencing a sudden illness or looking for a trusted healthcare partner for ongoing care, WestsideMed is here to help.
