Threadworm

It is also called pinworm and infests mostly the children. Its biological name is Enterobius vermicularis, and is generally found in the intestines of human beings. The average male worm can be 2-5mm long and the female worms are around 8-13mm long. They are white in colour with blunt head and end with a hair like pointed tail. They live for almost 6 weeks; the male worm resides inside the intestine and is rarely ever seen.

The female threadworms lay eggs that are not visible to human eyes around the anus and vagina, in girls, usually during the night. The female worms also secrete irritant mucus that can cause an itchy surface. Then the eggs can stick on to the fingers and reside underneath the nails which in turn can be transferred to the mouth and causing re-infestation. The eggs can survive for 3 weeks and hatch and re-enter the bowel. When these worms hatch and reach the adult stage they start reproducing again.

SYMPTOMS

They cause intense itching in and around the anus and vagina region, especially during the nights, since the female worms start laying theirs eggs at the time. When the infestation is severe they may lead to insomnia, weight loss and loss of appetite. The symptoms are generally not evident and even if there is only one person suffering from it in a house, it’s advisable to get the entire family checked.

CAUSES

They are generally caused due to poor hygiene, the eggs laid around the anus and vagina can be transferred and come in contact with the mouth which will lead to re-infestation. Children are generally affected because they are not usually aware of the importance of hygiene. They are also found in families that are crowded. Sometimes they can also breed by touching the contaminated surface like furniture’s and carpets; because the eggs can survive under these conditions for around two weeks.

They can be contacted from animals like dogs and cats. If the surface of the animal has come in contact with the egg then it can be spread by touching or patting the pet.

DIAGNOSIS

It is very difficult for human beings to see them through naked eyes so it becomes difficult to diagnose. Some times they can be found in the stool and may look like small pieces of white cotton threads and hence the name. The nurse may take a swab from the anus region to check the sample for eggs in the laboratory.

TREATMENT

The main aim is to get rid of the infestation and stop the breeding by maintaining hygiene. Medications prescribed by the doctor after thorough examination will also help.

Maintaining a strict hygiene regime will help greatly. These include:

• Keep finger nails as short and clean as possible.
• Discourage nail biting or sucking of finger, special care must be taken with the children.
• Frequently wash hands and scrub underneath nails specially before eating and visiting the lavatory,
• Wearing clean and close-fitting underwear in the night and wash them thoroughly in the mornings.
• Clean thoroughly the areas where the eggs are laid and using towels that are not shared.