Symptoms Of Pinworms

Top Signs and Symptoms of Pinworms Infection

Have you had a worm infection as a child? Or have your children experienced suffering from a pinworm infection? In both cases, you may have already noticed common symptoms of pinworms. Pinworms are scientifically called as Enterobius vermicularis. Pinworms are basically worm parasites and by the term parasites, these worms feed on another organism in order to live. As such, pinworms feed on our intestines for them to live.

At a closer look, pinworms may look like pins, slender body, about a third to a whole inch in size, whitish to yellowish in appearance, and may appear like grains when it comes out with the stool. Pinworm is a concerning condition—although it is not really the morbid and serious type of condition, its presence is concern because it can spread and be contagious; also once these worms feed on our system, we will be robbed of the nutrients which our body is supposed to benefit from. We end up malnourished, thin and unable to gain weight. As for kids, growth retardation may also occur. Therefore, awareness of the symptoms of pinworms is very important in order to respond appropriately and in a timely manner.

Symptoms of Pinworms Infection

-          An itchy sensation around the anus as well as in the perineum or genital area. These symptoms of pinworms are most common especially during the night when female pinworms deposit eggs. When we are asleep, these worms lay eggs leading to disturbance in sleep and rest. In fact, insomnia may occur, too.

-          There may be inflammation of the perineal and anal area due to these worms. Skin might bleed, break down and dry.

-          When the inflammation of the intestines become so severe, abdominal pain may happen, and furthermore, this may lead to bleeding, which may manifest when the person’s stool will contain blood.

-          Loss of appetite may occur, as well as malnutrition, as evidenced by loss of weight and thinning. This is because the worms steal the nutrients that we take in. Instead of them being absorbed into our cells, the parasites will benefit from them.

Other less common signs and symptoms of pinworms infection may occur:

Teeth grinding or bruxism Nausea and vomiting Fatigue Skin Rashes and Hives Bed Wetting

Pinworm infections occur with unhygienic practices personally, inside the household and even in the school, when we speak of pinworm infection in children.          The reason why pinworm infection spreads exponentially is because a single, female pinworm lays about 15,000 eggs. These eggs are deposited mostly in the rectal area and when an infected person scratches his or her anus and the eggs are trapped in the fingers and in nails, these can be actively transferred to objects, foods, water, linen, etc. Now, when another person gets in contact with such items where the eggs are transferred, the infection spreads further.

Pinworms in Children - Signs and Symptoms of Pinworms, Home ...

Pinworms are also called threadworms which are tiny worms found in intestines and are white in color. Pinworms in children is a common occurrence. They can be transferred from one kid to another as their eggs can be picked up by playing with infected toys, clothes or beddings. The eggs of pinworms can survive in your kid’s fingers or skin for a long period of time. If kids take their fingers to the mouth, the eggs can get inside their body and then to intestine, where they will hatch. Read this article for more information on pinworms in children.

Signs and Symptoms of Pinworms The following symptoms can be seen in a kid with pinworms:

A kid with pinworms will often be seen scratching his/her butt or places around anus or vagina. A kid will keep on moving in bed while sleeping. A kid shows signs of fatigue and tiredness even after regular activities. Interrupted sleep. Irritated easily. Drastic weight loss.

Home Remedies for Pinworms

When your kid shows the above mentioned symptoms, then definitely your child is suffering from pinworms in the intestines. A doctor will give prescription for your kid and mostly they are given chewable medicine to enjoy the flavor without knowing that it is medicine. Pyrantel Pamoate (Combantrin, Antiminth) or Mebendazole (Vermox) are generally prescribed. Every member of the family is given treatment for pinworms to prevent spreading of the infection. Some small kids feel unbearable rectal pain. In such cases, they are given sitz bath which includes immersion of pelvic region in lukewarm water. Further prevention is achieved by washing all the kid’s toys, bedding and clothing in hot water. Hot water will kill all the eggs. Fingernails should be maintained clean and should be trimmed short. Toilet seats should be cleaned properly daily. Most important thing is to wash hands properly after using the toilet and before meals.

The above article contains important information about pinworms in children.

The Johns Hopkins complete home guide to symptoms & remedies, the complete reference to more than 500 symptoms & conditions

... Symptoms Possible Diagnosis Anal fissures Distinguishing Features Rectal pain or ... Pinworms Anal itching, often at night; irritability; fidgetiness; ...

Nonprescription product therapeutics

Manifestations of Pinworm Infestation Symptoms of Pinworm Infestation Pinworms produce symptoms through three mechanisms: • Mechanical stimulation and ...

Diagnostic Face Reading and the Holistic You (3rd Edition)

The symptoms of a pinworm infection are caused by the female pinworm laying her eggs. Most symptoms of pinworm infection are mild, and many infected people ...

An Encyclopedia of Natural Healing for Children

PINWORMS The pinworm, also known as threadworm or seatworm, is one of the most common parasitic ... The symptoms of pinworms may vary from few to several. ...

American Medical Association family medical guide

The pinworms can spread to other family members if the child touches food, drinking glasses, sheets, towels, or other shared household items. Symptoms Some ...