Identifying the main signs of helminthic infestation in humans is important, since the problem of this disease always remains relevant. It is very important to be able to recognize the main symptoms of worms in order to start fighting them in time and reduce the harm they can cause.
Helminthiasis can cause many diseases and poses a particular danger to children.
Determining its origin is not an easy task. Many different diseases can be confused with this disease. Doctors are faced with the need to make many different diagnoses.
The first signs of the presence of worms do not have clear characteristics and regularity of manifestations. A person suffering from this disease may continue to appear healthy for a long time without realizing his illness.
Identification of signs of the presence of worms in a person should be carried out by a doctor who, after appropriate tests, can accurately make a diagnosis, determine what destructive phenomenon he is dealing with, and prescribe the necessary treatment. The presence of worms must be confirmed, since getting rid of them takes a long time, and medications have a toxic effect.
If left untreated, the attack is likely to result in death.
The first signs of parasites are quite difficult to accurately determine. It is easy to confuse one type of pest with another due to their wide variety, and only an experienced physician is able to identify the specific parasite. This is extremely important for a quick recovery and identification of the circumstances that contributed to the problem.
However, the signs of parasites are now well studied and can be detected by experienced professionals. If you have even the slightest suspicion, consult a doctor immediately.
Methods of penetration of helminths
Infection with parasites occurs easily under certain conditions and at any age. The most common ways of infection are: eating raw or undercooked meat, contact with soil, animal hair and feces, drinking water from an unreliable source, and lack of hand-washing habits (especially after using public toilets).
Parasites enter the body through insect bites and insufficiently thorough washing of vegetables and fruits. Flies are the main carriers of parasite eggs. When purchasing products in small stores or pavilions, you run the risk of buying a product that has been visited by a fly.
She had been exposed to feces before this happened and the presence of parasites is obvious. The presence of humans does not deter these insects, and they are always nearby. No amount of adhesive tape or aerosol can get rid of them.
The parasitic worm can enter the human body through another person, who becomes a carrier unnoticed. The method of spreading pinworms is very simple and dangerous in its directness. It is well researched and highlights the importance of good hygiene.
The pinworm leaves the intestines and lays eggs directly on the laundry. This is accompanied by severe itching, and by scratching the irritated area, the victim easily transfers the eggs to household items, hygiene items, and clothing. Other family members can easily become infected and become infected with parasites this way. It is better to iron linen with a hot iron and use personal towels.
Open bodies of water are dangerous due to the presence of parasite eggs. They easily get there and are stored for a long time. The danger is posed not only by drinking water from them, bathing, but even walking barefoot. This is especially true for tropical reservoirs not visited by tourists. One vacation in exotic waters can lead to serious infection.
Symptoms that occur when infected with worms
Humans can harbor parasitic worms that feed and reproduce in various organs of the body. They can even be found in blood. This disease is dangerous because it can go unnoticed for a long time or manifest symptoms similar to many others, most often associated with gastrointestinal problems.
Up to 170 different species of worms can live and parasitize humans. The greatest danger is posed by echinococcus and alveococcus. Worms are generally divided into two categories: round and flat. They can live and feed in people for many years, gradually destroying a person’s health from the inside.
Children most often become infected with parasites and it can be difficult to completely get rid of them, since children are constantly in contact with animals, play in the sand and often put their hands in their mouths. It is difficult to explain to young family members, especially those under 4 years old, the importance of hygiene and to ensure that they do not touch their eyes and mouth with dirty hands. It is difficult for them to avoid re-infection.
For parents, trying to isolate their child from worms can be a real headache and cause constant irritation. The child may not be accepted into kindergarten or school.
What are possible signs of the presence of worms in people?
Symptoms of the presence of worms in the human body will vary significantly depending on the type of parasite, its development and location. Also, the same signs of the presence of worms can manifest themselves differently in different people, affecting their complexion, lifestyle and general health. These manifestations may have varying degrees of discomfort.
What are the main signs of the presence of worms that need to be highlighted?
Signs of a person being infected with worms can go undetected for a long time and cause chronic diseases or even fatal consequences.
Worms interfere with the treatment process and contribute to the development of complications. In women, they can cause problems with the reproductive system, and in men, in addition to affecting the ability to produce offspring, they can disrupt normal potency and urinary function.
While in the intestines, worms manifest themselves by the appearance of unpleasant pain in the abdominal area, frequent stomach upsets, and general weakness. Later, vomiting, nausea and a constant feeling of heaviness after eating may occur. Skin rashes and disruption of intestinal microflora are also possible.
What do worms do to us?
Signs of infection usually include: abdominal pain (especially at night), intestinal problems, discomfort in the stomach after eating, severe weakness and fatigue, shortness of breath, disturbed sleep, itching in the anus (worsens at night).
Thus, typical signs of the presence of worms in the body:
- skin lesions;
- lethargy, headache;
- feeling of heaviness after eating;
- abdominal cramps, nausea;
- bad breath;
- weight changes (sudden weight loss or weight gain);
- discomfort in the anus;
- diarrhea, constipation;
- frequent colds and viral diseases due to decreased immunity;
- anemia (parasites drink blood in the intestines);
- painful urination;
- frequent miscarriages and menstrual irregularities in women;
- children have delays in development and growth;
- problems with memory and academic performance.
When worms settle in the lungs (most often long ones), then the signs of the appearance of worms will be as follows: fever, shortness of breath, sputum with blood. Hoarse sounds will be heard when listening to the lungs if there are worms in them. Any infection transmitted by airborne droplets can easily infect such a patient.
Worms have quite strong symptoms and treatment should begin immediately after diagnosis.
Parasites that live in the body of a healthy person usually show clear signs of illness and can be quickly detected by a specialist. It is important to remember the name of the parasite and purchase special drugs to destroy it. Consumption of foods that may contain worms should be strictly avoided if the presence of worms is suspected.
Treatment of worms
Getting rid of this problem is not so easy and requires several steps. First, you should take activated charcoal so that it binds and removes toxic substances released by parasites that accumulate in large quantities from the body. Then you need to start taking anthelmintic drugs.
The doctor will tell you which drug to choose after conducting a comprehensive examination of the patient and studying all the test results. It is necessary to complete treatment by taking a course of restorative medications for at least two months.
You will need products to strengthen the immune system (containing Echinacea), to restore the functioning of the liver and intestinal microflora (preparations with beneficial bacteria).
Attention!Treatment should only be prescribed by a doctor, since an incorrectly selected remedy may not only have no effect, but also cause harm. Self-medication is especially unacceptable in children.
General recommendations to avoid infection
FAQ
What symptoms may indicate the presence of worms in a person?
Symptoms of a worm infestation may include constant fatigue, weight loss, insomnia, itching in the anus, and the presence of worms or worm eggs in the stool.
What signs may indicate that a person is infected with worms?
Signs of worm infestation may include abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, anemia, eating disturbances, and nervousness and irritability.
Useful tips
Recommendation #1
Consult your doctor for professional advice and diagnosis. Only a specialist will be able to accurately determine the presence of worms and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Recommendation #2
Pay attention to symptoms such as constant fatigue, weight loss, restless sleep, itching in the anus, and the presence of worms in the stool. If they exist, be sure to discuss this with your doctor.
Recommendation #3
Follow the rules of hygiene: wash your hands thoroughly before eating and after visiting the toilet, treat vegetables and fruits before eating, do not drink raw water.