Intestinal worm infections
Also called: Helminthiasis, Roundworm, Hookworm, Threadworm
Infections with parasitic worms, affecting over a billion people worldwide, especially children in areas with poor sanitation. Threadworms are common everywhere.
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Causes
- Soil-transmitted helminths (Ascaris, hookworm, Trichuris)
- Threadworm (Enterobius)
- Tapeworms
Risk factors
- Poor sanitation
- Walking barefoot
- Young children
Symptoms
- Often none
- Abdominal pain, diarrhoea
- Anaemia (hookworm)
- Night-time anal itching (threadworm)
- Poor growth
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Stool microscopy
- Sellotape test for threadworm
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Albendazole or mebendazole
- Praziquantel for tapeworms and schistosomes
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Hand washing, short nails
- Treat the whole household for threadworm
Possible complications
- Anaemia and malnutrition
- Bowel obstruction (heavy Ascaris)
Prevention
- Sanitation, footwear, mass deworming programmes
Outlook
Easily treated; reinfection is common without hygiene measures.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for worms in stool, persistent anal itching or unexplained anaemia.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
Educational overview, not medical advice. Treatment varies by person and location. Consult a qualified health professional for diagnosis or care. Read our content and model notes and privacy information.