Overview of parasitic worm infections
Parasitic worm infections, also known as helminth infections mainly hit individuals’ bodies when worms infest them. They mainly originate from contaminated food, water, or contact with infected soil and they in turn can cause various health complications.
This majorly involves, from mild discomfort to severe organ damage, and hence proper diagnosis and in turn proper treatment is advisable.
In simple terms, we can say that parasitic worms are organisms that mainly live in the human body and feed on nutrients. In this manner, they cause difficulty in digestive and systemic health issues. They are thought to impact the digestive system and infect the intestines.
But this is not the end you are thinking, they can even spread to the lungs, liver, and brain. The origination of parasitic infections happens when you live with poor sanitation and hygiene.
Different types of parasitic worms
Roundworms (Nematodes)
These types of parasitic infections are mainly transmitted through Contaminated food, water, or soil. They are also common in tropical and subtropical regions. Examples are Hookworms, Strongyloides, and Trichinella.
Tapeworm
They are transmitted if you are consuming undercooked or raw meat or fish. The different examples are pork tapeworm, beef tapeworm, and also fish tapeworm.
Flukes (Trematodes)
The different categories of Flukes (Trematodes) are Schistosoma and liver fluke. They mainly spread with contaminated water or aquatic plants.
Pinworms
The last category is Pinworms and they are known as highly contagious and more common in children than adults. They are transmitted through Ingesting eggs through contaminated hands or surfaces.
Symptoms of Parasitic Worm Infections
Different symptoms can be seen depending upon the type of parasitic infections caused.
- Digestive issues
- Skin rashes
- Weakness
- Coughing
- Anemia
- Visible worms in stool area
- Loss of body weight
Diagnosis of Parasitic Worm Infections
There are various approaches which can be considered by specialists to determine the presence of parasitic worm infections.
Examination of stool
There is a microscopic analysis of stool samples to detect the worm eggs or even larvae.
Blood test
In this particular examination, there is an antibody or eosinophilia identification done which is linked to parasitic infections.
Imaging
This technique involves X-ray, MRI, CT scan and for detecting parasites in organs like the brain or liver.
Endoscopy/Colonoscopy
This tends to directly visualize the worms in the gastrointestinal tract.
Treatment for parasitic worm infections
Treatment is entirely dependent upon the type of worm infection residing in your body.
Medications
There are different antiparasitic medicines available and the ones highly recommended are Albendazole 400mg & Mebendazole. These medicines are suitable for treating roundworms, hookworms, and pinworms.
In the case of treating strongyloidiasis and some filarial infections then the use of Ivermectin is consumed.
Supportive care
Individuals are advised to consume iron supplements to have control over anemia.
Patients are also advised to have nutritional support to help with weight loss and even malnutrition.
In another case, hydration therapy is also suggested for those who are experiencing severe diarrhea or dehydration.
Surgical process
This is considered to be a rare case, worms cause blockages, cysts, or organ damage, and surgery may be required.
Preventing Parasitic Worm Infections
Maintaining proper hygiene is required so that parasitic worm infections do not attack.
Individuals are advised not to drink untreated or contaminated water.
Try to cook meat and fish properly to kill potential parasites.
Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables and in case if you are eating them raw.
Try to avoid walking barefoot mainly in areas where soil contamination is quite common.
When to See a doctor?
Seeking immediate medical attention is required in some of the cases like-
If there is persistent abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting.
When you are experiencing weight loss or severe fatigue.
There is a visibility of worms in stool or while vomiting.
There is an itching around the anus.
In another case, if you are facing difficulty breathing or also experiencing some of the neurological symptoms.
Conclusion
It has been found that parasitic worm infections are quite common, but when they are detected it has to be treated with the right medications and hygiene practices. Therefore, it requires an early detection upon examining the symptoms and in this manner complications can be prevented.
Moreover, following healthy and hygienic practices can further prevent the development of parasitic infections.