Worms in humans are often manifested by parasites that live in both the large and the small intestines of humans. Intestinal parasites live off of blood in the walls of the intestines and stool that is passing through. There are four common varieties such as; the pinworm, tapeworm, hookworm and the roundworm. The article will focus on the symptoms of different worms in humans as well as home remedies and prevention measures to treat those worm infections.
Symptoms of Worms in Humans
1. Tapeworm Infection
Tapeworms are acquired via water and food that are contaminated with the larvae and eggs of the tapeworm. If you consume the eggs of the tapeworm, they tend to move away from the intestinal area and develop into cysts in the organs and other tissues of the body. This is known as an invasive tapeworm infection. Ingestion of the tapeworm larvae will cause them to grow into mature tapeworms.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a tapeworm infection depend on the type of infection and whether it is intestinal or invasive. Here are the symptoms of a tapeworm infection according to the location:
Intestinal Tapeworms:
- Abdominal Pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Malabsorption of nutrients from food
- Weight Loss
- Weakness and Fatigue
Invasive Tapeworm:
- Neurological Symptoms/Seizures
- Fever
- Masses or Lumps/Cysts
- Bacterial Infections
- Allergic Reactions to Tapeworm Larvae
2. Pinworm Infection
The number one worm infection in humans in the U.S. is pinworms. These tiny worms that are only around ¼ to ½ inch long infect the intestines and often people who are infected do not have any symptoms at all. During the night, the female worms move down to the anal opening and lay their eggs. This may cause the inability to sleep due to itching.
Pinworms are very common among daycare centers and children in school. The infection is highly contagious and spread very easily due to poor hand hygiene in children. Pinworm infections are treated with oral medications and sanitization of any clothing, underclothes, and bedding. When there is a pinworm infection, everyone that has come in contact with the child needs to be treated.
Symptoms
- Abdominal Pain
- Nausea
- Intense Itching at the anal opening or vagina
- Inability to sleep
3. Roundworm Infection
Roundworms are a type of parasite that are close to the size of a common earthworm and are also known by their scientific names, Ascariasis and acaris. They infect both the small intestine and the entire digestive system. They invade the digestive system and feed, reproduce and live in the digestive tract of humans. There are usually no symptoms of a roundworm infestation, but people see a doctor because they see the worms in their bowel movements. Roundworm symptoms are a little more prominent than pinworms and include:
Symptoms
- High Fever
- Dry cough
- Possible Obstruction in the Bowel
The above symptoms can last for 4 to 16 after eating roundworm larvae and can become quite serious if the infection is from a large amount of eggs.
Remedies for Worms in Humans
For intestinal worms, you need to be evaluated by a physician in order to diagnose and find which parasite you have. They will run tests and help you obtain the appropriate treatment. In addition to this, you can try certain supplements, herbs and dietary changes to help clear up the infestation. Just understand that certain home treatments have not been widely tested to see if they are effective for riding the body of parasites, but they have been used for quite some time.
Home Remedies
1. Garlic
Garlic is said to help decrease roundworm infections. You can obtain garlic in either raw whole clove or pill form. Include garlic into your daily diet can provide much help.
2. Wormseed
This remedy has been used for a long time in tropical regions to help get rid of roundworm, tapeworm and hookworms. Do not use wormseed oil, but instead it is recommended to use it as a tea. This herbal remedy is still being researched to see if it is effective.
3. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds in generous amounts (25 ounces) are said to be effective in ridding the body of roundworm and tapeworm infestations. The seeds can be pureed and blended with juice then followed a few hours later by a laxative or colon cleanse to flush out the intestines. These have also not been widely studied for effectiveness.
4. More Remedies
Prevention Measures
Prevention is always best. These helpful tips can help you avoid getting parasites if at all possible:
1. Wash Your Hands
Always wash your hands before and after using the toilet and before and after handling food. Good hand washing techniques is the number one prevention against any infection.
2. Do Not Eat Raw Meat and Fish
Cooking foods above a certain temperature can help to kill off parasite eggs. Whole meat needs to be at least 145 degrees and ground meats need to be at least 160 degrees. It is also important to allow meat to rest for at least 3 minutes after cooking.
3. Store Meat Properly
After shopping, place meat in the freezer for 24 hours at below 4 degrees F. Do not store fresh meat in the refrigerator for longer than 3 days.
4. Clean and Cook Fruits and Vegetables Well In Certain Locations
If you travel and eat in the tropics or third world country, make sure you clean fruits and vegetables well with hot water or chemical preparation and eat them cooked.