Worm Infestation

Infestation of Hookworm, Pinworm, Threadworms, Tapeworm, Whipworm...
Any of the several types of worms may live in human body as parasites ( infestation), sometimes causing from mild to severe illness. This worms which infest the blood, intestines, or organs ( e.g. lungs, liver) . The sizes of the worms range from microscopic to about one meter.

Symptoms
* None, in mild infestation.
* Tiredness.
* Malaise.
* Nausea, vomiting.
* Weight loss.
* Irregular vowel movement, diarrhea.
* Abnormal pain or distension.
* In hookworm infestation, itchy rash on the feet.
* In whipworm infestation, part of the rectum from the anus, with whipwoms on it.
* In schistosomiasis, fluke like symptoms.
* In filariasis, swelling of the legs due to blockage of lymph vessels by the worms.
* In pinworm infestation, itch around the anus.

Complications
* Anemia, in severe cases.
* Intestinal blockage.
* Damage to other organs.
* Blindness, in onchocerciasis.

Common causes
* Eating contaminated food, whether cooked or fresh. Infestation may occur when the food is uncooked, or even properly cooked when the food is handled by conaminated hands, fingers or utensils.
* Raw foods.
* Penetration of the skin of the feet.

What can you do
* Take anthelmintic ( Anti-Worm drugs).
* Do not scratch the anus.
* Consult a doctor if you suspect worm infestation or there is abdominal pain or swelling.

What your doctor can do for you
* Determine the type of worm infestation.
* Prescribe anthelmintics ( anti-worm drugs)
* Treat the complications.

Prevention Tips
* Cook your food well.
* Avoid unhygienic places and areas with poor sanitation.
* Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly. Peel fruit just before eating it. Avoid raw salads not prepared at home.
* Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and clean water after using toilet and before preparing foods to eat.
* Wash hands before eating.
* Wear shoes out doors.
* Wash your hands as often as possible.