Worm Infestation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Worm infestation (Helminthiasis) occurs when parasitic worms infect the body, typically the intestines, causing a range of health issues. These parasites are usually transmitted through contaminated food, water, soil, or direct contact with infected individuals.

Types of Worm Infestations

1. Intestinal Worms (Most Common)

Roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides) – Spread through contaminated food & water.

Tapeworms (Taenia spp.) – Acquired from undercooked meat or fish.

Hookworms (Ancylostoma, Necator) – Enter through the skin from contaminated soil.

Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis) – Highly contagious, cause anal itching.

Whipworms (Trichuris trichiura) – Cause severe diarrhea and weight loss.

2. Other Worm Infections

Liver Flukes – Affect the liver and bile ducts.

Guinea Worms (Dracunculiasis) – Found in contaminated water.

Filarial Worms – Cause elephantiasis (swelling in limbs).

Causes & Transmission

🔹 Poor hygiene – Not washing hands before eating.

🔹 Contaminated food or water – Uncooked meat, unwashed vegetables.

🔹 Walking barefoot – Infected soil can transmit hookworms.

🔹 Close contact – Sharing clothes, bedding, or objects with an infected person.

🔹 Swimming in contaminated water – Some worms enter through the skin.

Symptoms of Worm Infestation

Stomach pain & bloating

Diarrhea or constipation

Unexplained weight loss

Nausea & vomiting

Itching around the anus (especially at night, in pinworm infections)

Fatigue & weakness

Nutritional deficiencies (Iron & Vitamin B12 deficiency)

Visible worms in stool or vomit

Diagnosis

Blood Test – Detects antibodies against worms.

Stool Test – Identifies eggs or worms in feces.

Ultrasound, X-ray, or CT Scan – In cases of organ involvement.

Treatment for Worm Infestation

1. Medications (Deworming Drugs)

Albendazole & Mebendazole – Kills most intestinal worms.

Praziquantel – Used for tapeworm & liver flukes.

Ivermectin – Treats filarial worms & some roundworms.

Pyrantel Pamoate – Commonly used for pinworms.

2. Home Remedies & Natural Treatments

Garlic – Natural anti-parasitic properties.

Pumpkin Seeds – Contains compounds that paralyze worms.

Papaya Seeds – Kills intestinal worms.

Neem & Turmeric – Help cleanse the gut.

Prevention Tips

Wash hands regularly – After using the toilet & before eating.

Drink clean water – Use boiled or filtered water.

Cook food properly – Avoid undercooked meat & seafood.

Keep nails short & clean – Prevent eggs from collecting under nails.

Deworming every 6 months – Especially for children & pet owners.

Maintain good hygiene – Regularly wash bedding, clothes, and toilets.