Roundworm Symptoms
All You Need to Know About Roundworm Symptoms
There are a wide variety of roundworm symptoms people should be aware of in case of infection. These worms are also frequently referred to as nematodes. Obtaining a roundworm infection is definitely more likely for people living in warmer environments than those living in those that cold. Here we will examine all you need to know about the most common roundworm symptoms.
This roundworm is known to scientists as Ascaris lumbricoides and is actually relatively common throughout the world. Currently this worm is said to be infecting over one billion people worldwide. In terms of physical appearance, this worm tends to be about sixteen inches long. The worm itself is actually a light red or pink color with brighter red stripes.
These pink worms infect the victim’s intestines and the females even lay eggs here. The eggs can hatch and allow the worm to travel to multiple body parts, including your brain. However, as they mature they generally exit your organs through your feces and inhabit the soil in warm climates where they can live for over half a decade.
People obtain the infections through the soil, as well as in contaminated food and water. Since most children play outdoors and frequently place their hands inside their mouths after playing in the dirt, they are much more likely to contracting these infections.
The roundworm symptoms include a variety of different things from enlarging the liver to abdominal pain. Other symptoms may include diarrhea, fever, coughing, and even a paling of the upper lip. Vomiting and gas are two other frequently seen roundworm symptoms of anyone infected with this parasite. There are other symptoms that may be a little more rare than those mentioned above, but are still highly likely for anyone with a parasite infection. These symptoms include the following: irritability, lack of appetite, allergies, spasms, twitching, itching, and even an intolerance for items high in lactose.
Many people commonly confuse the symptoms of roundworm (and other parasite infections) with the flu. Those with this disease rarely gain weight and may be accompanied with a rash. In severe cases in which the eye is infected, visible tumors may appear near the infected site. It is essential to note that there are multiple different types of roundworms that are found throughout the world. Each of these types tend to have their own list of symptoms. Although most are relatively mild in nature and can be treated with a simple prescription of medication, some actually may lead to blindness or what some refer to as “river blindness.”
Anyone experiencing these symptoms or a combination of any of the symptoms above, should seek medical assistance. Doctors are able to treat these roundworm symptoms by prescribing medicine that is known to be of assistance to this infection. For children obtaining the infections, parents are recommended to instruct the child to have better hygiene and avoid putting their hands in their mouths while playing outside.
In conclusions, roundworm symptoms can often be relatively problematic and confused with a variety of other issues. The most common symptoms appear to be flu-like symptoms as well as an inability to gain weight. However, anyone experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, either alone or in combination, should definitely seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember that most children are likely to contract these infections due to not washing their hands after playing outside in the dirt. By talking with your children about the likelihood to become infected and explain the necessity of proper hygiene after playing outside, you may be able to minimize the likelihood of them contracting an infection.