Intestinal worm infections are a common health issue and can occur at any age, especially if hygiene and sanitation levels are below optimal. Infections happen when a parasite enters the system through infected food, water or soil and becomes established in the gut. The main species of worms that infest the intestines are roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and pinworms. Some infestations may be initially asymptomatic; others are often mild but can have longstanding effects on nutrition, general health and energy levels. The treatment for these infections is therefore vital to enable a swift recovery and return to good health.
There are different worms that can infect human intestine including: Roundworm is common and can attain large size. Hookworm sits in the wall of the human intestine and sips blood. The womanizer can cause anemia. Whip worm usually infect the large intestine and causes disturbed bowel movements. The pin worm erodes the skin of the anal opening and causes vigorous itching. The type of worm will identify the treatment needed.
Intestinal worms present with different symptoms according to the parasite and the burden. Symptoms include indigestion, abdominal discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue or weight loss. Worms can also cause anemia (hookworms), and growth retardation (in children). The presence of worms is established by stool samples, and worms causing persistent symptoms can be diagnosed by their symptoms, signs, or identification of eggs or worms themselves.
How do you diagnose intestinal worms? Diagnosis is usually by undertaking a stool examination to look for signs of the parasite‘s eggs or larvae. Additional tests, such as blood tests or images may be requested by the doctor if another type of infection is suspected. A tape test maybe used for pinworms to collect eggs from the surrounding skin of the anus. Successful treatment relies on an accurate diagnosis, so the infection can be treated with the correct medication and targeted at the specific type of parasite.
Albendazole is used extensively for the treatment of intestinal worms, due to its broad spectrum activity. Albendazole functions to prevent the worms from absorbing the glucose they need for survival. The drug is effective against most worms, including roundworms, hookworms and pinworms. Often a single dose is used, although a repeat dose is often advised. Albendazole can be used without major concerns, is well tolerated and is therefore first line.
Mebendazole, a widely prescribed drug, functions in a similar way to Albendazole in that it interferes with the worm‘s absorption of nutrients. It is active against whipworms, pinworms and roundworms. It can be prescribed either as a single dose or over a short period of time depending on the type of infection. It is a relatively safe drug with few side-effects which can be used in adults and children.
Ivermectin is used for particular parasitic conditions, such as those caused by certain worms. It acts directly on the nervous system of the worms, paralyzing them and causing their death. It is especially effective in the treatment of strongyloidiasis. Dose is calculated on body weight and advice should be taken before self-medicating. It is very effective but is used only in particular cases.
Widely available drug, available over-the-counter, is one of the most commonly accessible anthelmintic drug. It paralyzes worms and this way, they can leave the body naturally. Medication used for mild infections-pinworms, and is quite safe for children. It is very convenient for quick treatment, easy for use, but still diagnosis should be confirmed.
There may also be circumstances where one drug alone may not eradicate the full range of parasites and combo therapy may be advised whereby two drugs are used to treat the infection. This approach is particularly advantageous in areas where there is a prevalence of coinfection and if the patient has been on one of the drugs (preferably not praziquantel for Schistosoma’s) before and still harbors infection. This improves the prognosis of overall disease eradication by targeting different worms in an additive manner.
Natural remedies are said to be effective in assisting the removal of intestinal worms. Remedies include garlic, pumpkin seeds and papaya seeds (Doctor, 2004). These remedies can have mild antiphrastic effects and support the digestive processes however they are not as effective as treatment from a doctor. There is minimal scientific evidence to support the use of these remedies but they can be used in conjunction with treatment to support the recovery process.
Protection from re infection. In addition to treatment, prevention of re infection is a very important aspect of management. Hygiene is central to the successful prevention of infection. Hands should be washed, and washed properly, before any food is eaten and after any defecation. Drinking clean water and including properly cooked food also prevents contamination. Also nails should be kept short and bedding, clothing and the whole house should be washed.
Although many worm infections are simple to treat, some symptoms need to be seen by a doctor. These include extreme abdominal pain, constant diarrhea, blood or mucus in the stool and loss of weight. Those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women and young children should seek medical advice before treatment begins.
Infection with worms is something that is common but also easy and simple to treat with the correct treatment. Medication such as: Albendazole, Mebendazole, Ivermectin and Pyrantel pamoate all focus on removing worms in a safe and timely manner. Having knowledge of what is the most effective and why can benefit an individual in terms of helping them make the best decision for themselves. Furthermore, with the correct treatment in conjunction with hygiene, avoiding contact with contaminated soil, proper sanitation and hygienic practices, the organism can be eradicated from not only the host, but also the community.
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