Worms in humans – symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

When worms enter the human body, they begin their parasitic activity and thereby cause discomfort. Helminth infestation often causes severe allergic reactions, gastrointestinal diseases and other pathologies not related to the gastrointestinal tract. However, traditional treatment of these diseases does not provide a cure. Worms in humans can be suspected with a high degree of probability based on certain symptoms, but helminthiasis only becomes clinically manifest when the worms multiply massively. In asymptomatic cases, laboratory tests help to reliably diagnose helminthiasis. The symptoms of worms in humans can be different, but the main ones include abdominal pain, discomfort near the anus, nausea and general malaise. To restore health, it is necessary to get rid of worms using anthelmintics or folk remedies.

What are worms?

Worms are parasites of humans and animals and belong to the class of flatworms or roundworms. Worms have a fairly common structure.
Worms traditionally go through several stages in their development: egg – larva – adult. Most human infections with worms occur when they ingest worm eggs.

Ingested eggs quickly hatch into larvae in the human intestinal tract, which begin to migrate to their permanent habitat, where they transform into adults. When moving, almost all helminths make real "journeys" through the human body.

Only a few parasites (e. g. pinworms) hatch from eggs in the intestinal tract and remain there. Usually, the destruction of tissues and organs, as well as the symptoms caused by larvae and other developing forms of helminths during movement, are most pronounced compared to the symptoms caused by mature parasites

As already mentioned, adult worms traditionally have a stable localization in the body and their developing forms often migrate to various organs and tissues, and often the path of their movement is quite complex. For example, with ascariasis, a person becomes infected by eating food contaminated with worm eggs (ascariasis eggs ripen in the soil).

In the cavity of the intestinal tract, roundworm eggs hatch into larvae, which within a few hours penetrate through the wall of the intestinal tract into the blood vessels and are transported via the bloodstream to the lungs. Roundworm larvae grow and mature in the lungs. The growing larva slowly gnaws on the adjacent bronchi and crawls along them, first into the trachea and then into the oral cavity, where it is swallowed again and transported into the intestinal tract.

The roundworm larva, re-entering the intestinal tract, turns into an adult worm. Pulmonary migration of roundworm larvae is manifested by a variety of symptoms (cough, asthma attacks, increased body temperature, allergic rash), and the presence of a small number of adult worms in the intestinal tract may not be noticeable at all.

What are worms? Worms are scientifically called helminths. Helminths are all worms that parasitize the bodies of humans, animals and plants. Accordingly, worms are not a specific type of parasite, but a whole group of different worms, of which three are the most common.

Some scientists claim that almost the entire population of the Earth is infected with one parasitic worm or another. However, in this case, helminth infestation would have to be the most common type of disease worldwide, and a number of reputable studies show that not everything is actually that bad. But the thought that a person still has helminths makes him immediately look for an answer to the question of how to get rid of worms.

It should also be understood that helminthic infestation is not something rare and insignificant. There are more than three hundred species; The human larvae penetrate far beyond the intestines, continue to develop there and gradually poison the body. Let's find out what are the symptoms of worms in humans, because, as we know, the forewarned is forearmed. And then we'll find out how to effectively get rid of worms and what is needed to prevent them from coming back.

It is actually very easy to determine the presence of worms in a person's body - you just need to do a stool test. The problem, however, is that most people don't even think about taking such a test. The problem is that helminths in adults and children disguise themselves as a variety of diseases and their presence is not initially apparent.

A person can spend years treating the intestines, liver, kidneys, stomach and gallbladder, and the root of the evil will be helminthiasis and parasites, which feel great if left unchecked.

Helminth infestation often leads to the development of diseases that have nothing to do with the helminths themselves. And in this case, if you do not understand what is happening in time, you can be treated endlessly.

All this proves that worms are not just an unpleasant phenomenon. And given the variety of routes of infection, knowing the signs of worms in humans is crucial.

How do worms (parasites) form?

The symptoms of helminthic diseases depend on the development phase of the parasite. The development of helminthiases is usually divided into acute and acquired stages.

• The acute stage of development of parasites begins with the patient's infection with worms and lasts 2-3 weeks (in severe disease up to 2 months).This stage is characterized by the predominance of allergic manifestations (skin rash, dry suffocating cough, increased levels of eosinophils in the blood), which develop in response to the appearance in the blood of antigens (fragments) of migratory larvae. The immune response is very pronounced at the stage when the early forms of the parasite (larvae) are in the body of an infected person;
• The acquired developmental stage of worms occurs after the acute stage and lasts several weeks, months or years (in some helminthic diseases up to 10 years). For us, the symptoms of this stage depend on the location of the worms, their number and their feeding habits.
  At the places where they spread, parasites damage the tissue with their fixation organs (hooks, spines, cutting plates, cuticle spines). Damage leads to tissue irritation and the development of an inflammatory reaction.

Some rapidly growing parasites, such as cysticerci or hydatid cysts, located in the brain, eyeballs and liver, compress the surrounding tissues and often cause dysfunction of vital organs, which has serious consequences.

In the acquired stage of helminthiasis, the metabolism is disturbed because the parasite constantly absorbs valuable nutrients such as proteins, minerals, carbohydrates and vitamins. In addition, the absorption of digested food in the intestinal tract is disrupted. The acquired phase of most gastrointestinal helminth infestations is often asymptomatic, particularly in cases where the parasites are represented by a single individual.

Symptoms of disease only occur if the parasite is large, such as a roundworm or tapeworm.
With other helminthiases, for example with enterobiasis, nocturnal itching in the anal area may occur; intense invasion with trichuriasis contributes to the development of hemorrhagic colitis; Children may experience symptoms of rectal prolapse.

How can you become infected with worms?

Parasites can be acquired in different ways. In this case, the worms are carried by larvae that are almost invisible to the naked eye.

Main methods of infection:

• lack of hygiene knowledge – dirty hands, working on the floor;
• Eating food contaminated with helminths – unwashed fruits and foods eaten by husbands, as well as insufficiently heat-treated meat and fish (kebabs, rare steak, smoked foods, sushi, etc. );
• drinking unboiled water contaminated with worm eggs;
• Contact with animals that are natural reservoirs for worms – cats and dogs, wild animals (hunting, fishing, working on fur farms);
• Contact with a person with helminthiasis - a handshake, through bed linen, doorknobs, etc.

What organs can worms live in?

Helminthic parasites are divided into two categories corresponding to the location of their activity in the donor's body:

• cavity– Worms that live in different parts of the gastrointestinal tract. There are about 100 species of intestinal parasites, and for each part of the intestine there are a few dozen species. The small intestine is ready to receive roundworms, antelostomas, broad tapeworms and other less common "brothers". The small intestine will "share the habitat" with pinworms, dwarf tapeworms and others. Cases are described in the medical literature when a person at the same timewas infected with multiple types of parasites;
• Material- Worms localized in organs, tissues and even blood. Modern medicine successfully copes with paragonimiasis (lungs), cysticercosis (brain), echinococcosis (liver) and filariasis (lymphatic vessels). Some worm larvae move through the body via the circulatory system, attaching themselves randomly to each organ. If many eggs are introduced, the entire body can become infected.

How can you become infected with worms?

To protect yourself, you need to know four ways worm eggs spread and become infected:

• through soil and water - geohelminthiasis. They develop in sand, soil and water, then enter the human body and begin laying eggs there. Next, the worm eggs enter the external environment along with the excrement and wait in the wings to infect a new person. Eating poorly washed vegetables and fruits, dirty hands and dust on food can cause a person to become infected with geohelminths. Some parasite eggs enter the human body through the skin of the feet and ankles.
• through direct contact.Worms are spread from pets and people through hand contact, games and shared activities.
• through consumption of contaminated food of animal origin – biohelminthiasis. Eating raw and lightly processed meat (kebabs, lard, preserved meat, homemade game) and fish (sushi, dried fish, preserved fish) is potentially dangerous. There is a possibility of infection with intestinal infections and biohelminths;
• against insect bites. This type of infection is quite rare. These include intestinal myiasis, cantariasis and scoleciasis. Do not confuse the eggs of parasites and insect larvae, which are also deposited under the skin of animals and the skin of humans (e. g. horsefly larvae).

Symptoms of worms

To understand how to remove worms from a person, you should know the symptoms that manifest themselves in each type of tapeworm. Depending on the location of the dislocation, helminthic infestation can be:

• bright.Cavity worms inhabit the small and large intestine. The habitat of roundworms and tapeworms, for example, is the small intestine. Pinworms live in the lower part of the small intestine, whipworms live in the large intestine;
• Muscle (cellular).They live in muscle cells, lung tissue, brain cells, liver, lymph nodes and eyes. Some of the worms are luminal and cellular, as in the early stages they migrate with the bloodstream and colonize the organs mentioned above.

Symptoms of worms in an adult can be different. As mentioned above, they are often easily confused with signs of other diseases. In some cases, everything happens according to the classic scenario of a mass infection. In this case, the signs of worms in an adult and a child are similar, most likely more pronounced in children.

Obvious symptoms of worm infection: itching in the anus, especially at night; sudden loss or, on the contrary, gain of weight; Anemia, which is externally manifested by paleness of the skin; tired, gaunt appearance.

If you or your children experience such phenomena, you must definitely consult a doctor and insist on checking the stool for parasite eggs. Of course it can't be her fault. The symptoms of helminthic infestation are not always the cause of poor health, but communication with a doctor will be useful in any case, since disorders in the body are obvious.

Symptoms of worms in humans, first signs

The first signs of worms in humans are always absent; Symptoms of a parasite infestation only appear when, for example, a large number of worms (pinworms, roundworms) are present or the tapeworm reaches a large size. The clinical picture of helminthiasis often resembles gastrointestinal pathology.

However, in addition to the signs characteristic of gastrointestinal lesions, there are signs indicating dysfunction of other organs.

Symptoms indicating the presence of helminths in the body:

• Loss of appetite or, conversely, gluttony, bitterness in the mouth and excessive salivation;
• a strong craving for sweets (worms feed on carbohydrates);
• Nausea, vomiting – sometimes worms crawl into the stomach or their parts (segments) are found in the vomit;
• Itching of the anus and grinding of teeth during sleep often indicate enterobiasis;
• unstable stool – always leads to intestinal dysbiosis, helminthiasis occurs with frequent changes of diarrhea and constipation; If the infestation is severe, worms can be excreted in the feces;
• Flatulence – Bloating and growling in the stomach are caused by toxins produced by worms;
• periodic abdominal pain – diffuse, often localized in the navel area, pain is sometimes spastic in nature;
• Skin manifestations - sudden allergic rashes and purulent formations (acne, boils), caused by a decrease in local immunity and the removal of toxins through the skin, often occur in a severe form, at the same time there is weakness of the nails and excessiveoccurrence of hair loss;
• Irritable bowel syndrome – impaired nutrient absorption leads to the development of anemia and weight loss, especially with numerous helminth colonies;
• Cough is a dry symptom that occurs in the pulmonary stage of helminthiasis (Ascaris larvae enter the lungs with blood); severe infestations can cause pneumonia;
• Obesity - strangely enough, it can also be triggered by intestinal parasites, which, when fed with carbohydrates, cause a sharp drop in blood sugar and force to eat more food, and the body stores fats in reserve;
• Nervous system symptoms – increased irritability, poor sleep or sleepiness, constant depression, decreased attention and memory problems are especially pronounced in children with helminthiasis;
• Chronic fatigue syndrome – parasites often cause constant weakness, prolonged temperature rises to 37-37. 5 ° C, a flu-like condition and muscle pain;
• Pathology of the upper respiratory tract - a sluggish runny nose, untreatable cough, even pneumonia and asthmatic diseases are often caused by the presence of helminths;
• reduced immunity – concomitant helminthiasis, intestinal dysbiosis and chronic intoxication lead to frequent colds and pathologies indicating immunodeficiency (herpes, warts, etc. ), including oncopathology.

The effect of helminthiasis on the nervous system deserves special attention. Over the course of its life, each type of parasite produces products that are perceived by the body as foreign substances. Their toxic effect primarily affects the nervous system and leads to irritability, depressive states and other disorders of emotional stability.

Flat parasites in humans. Symptoms

fluke

The fluke is located in the liver tubules. Causes cancer of the digestive organs. You can become infected by eating lightly salted, raw fish products. Symptoms of worms in adults: increased body temperature; bouts of vomiting; Dyspepsia; pain in the spleen, liver; Allergy. The person is periodically dizzy and sleep is disturbed; Migraine is observed; he becomes irritable; The mood changes often. Treatment of helminthiasis is carried out in a hospital.

Schistosoma

Schistosoma infection routes include swimming in loading ponds and drinking dirty water. Parasites in the small veins of the large intestine, abdominal cavity, small pelvis, uterus and bladder. May be localized in the brain.

Symptoms of a worm infection include loss of appetite; Disorder of the digestive system; pale skin; Stomach pain; Dyspepsia; Intestinal and uterine bleeding, weight loss, intestinal obstruction. In women, it causes menstrual irregularities; during pregnancy, miscarriages were recorded due to the presence of worms.

Men develop impotence; Sperm quality decreases (infertility). Children suffer from delayed growth and mental development. When brain cells are damaged, consciousness is impaired and paralysis and convulsions can occur. Such conditions can lead to death

Paragon

Paragonome - Lung fluke: What causes worms in humans: by eating freshwater crabs, fish, pork. The worm attacks the bronchial organs and the lungs. Signs of worms in adults: increase in temperature; The person begins to cough for a long time.

When you cough, sputum is produced. Migraine is observed; Shortness of breath occurs when there is no movement; impaired visual acuity; Attacks of vomiting.

Echinococci

Echinococcus is a very dangerous tapeworm. Can lead to death. It lives next to a person for a long time and is unable to express itself. The route of infection occurs through pets, often dogs. A person becomes infected without following hygiene rules.

Echinococcus causes the development of cysts in human organs. The treatment of worms in adults is exclusively surgical. Often affects the digestive system, respiratory system, brain and bone tissue. Symptoms in adults depend on which organ is affected.

Liver: pain in this area of various types, heaviness, fatigue, skin allergies, jaundice. Lungs: pain in the sternum, coughing fits, shortness of breath. Brain: migraines, dizziness, paralysis, mental disorders, epilepsy. Bones: Muscles, joints hurt; Fractures are frequently observed.

Wide tapeworm

The broadband worm is one of the largest parasites. Lives in the small intestine. The route of infection is the consumption of lightly salted caviar, that is, fish that has not undergone proper heat treatment.

Worms in the human body are characterized by frequent vomiting; pain in the abdominal area; Dyspepsia; loss of appetite; Fatigue; Anemia; decreased blood pressure; Migraine. In addition, the pain is sometimes so severe that it causes fainting.

Bull tapeworm

Beef tapeworm: Route of entry is contaminated beef. The helminth infestation colonizes the small intestine. How to understand that an infection has occurred? Signs of worms in humans: stomach pain; severe nausea; excessive increase in appetite; weight loss; rumbling in stomach; Flatulence; increased stool frequency.

Pork tapeworm

Pork tapeworms live in different organs. Paths of infection include poor hygiene and unwashed fruit. You can determine that a person has worms by dizziness, persistent and regular migraines. The person sleeps poorly, often wakes up with a "cold sweat" due to nightmares and therefore becomes irritated over time. The appetite is disturbed and belching occurs.

Dwarf tapeworm

The dwarf tapeworm reaches humans through the oral cavity through contaminated fruit and vegetables. Lives in the area of the small intestine. Symptoms: fever, nausea, salivation, belching, heartburn, runny nose, dry mucous membranes.

Roundworms in humans. Symptoms

Ascaris

Ascaris: You can become infected after eating unwashed vegetables and fruits. Tapeworms live in the small intestine. Signs of the appearance of worms in a person: the anus itches, the person feels the movement of the worms, which causes incredible discomfort. The temperature may rise, the lymph nodes may enlarge and a headache may occur in the evening. The liver enlarges and allergy symptoms become visible (urticaria in the feet and hands, dermatosis). Due to damage to the central nervous system, mental disorders occur - depression, convulsions, attacks of aggression, nighttime nightmares. The function of digestion is disturbed.

Pinworm

Pinworm: This parasite is caused by dirty hands. Lives in the large and small intestines of humans. The source of infection is sick people and non-compliance with hygiene standards.

The first signs of worms: itching in the anal area (worse at night); Stomach pain; be sick; sleep is disturbed. The person is restless and irritable; gets tired quickly.

Some people develop urinary incontinence against this background; allergic manifestations. Girls with worms experience profuse vaginal discharge.

Trichinae

Trichinella is a dangerous helminthic infestation. Symptoms do not always appear immediately. Routes of infection: consumption of pork, vegetation near pastures. Helminth infestation affects all systems and organs without exception.

The following symptoms cause worms in humans: loss of appetite; People feel constantly nauseous and regularly experience a gag reflex. Bowel movements are disturbed and pain occurs in the abdomen. A special feature is the swelling of the face. Muscle aches; rashes appear on the skin; Temperature rise.

Hookworms

Hookworms are dangerous worms in adults. Symptoms may be severe or absent. The gastrointestinal tract (small intestine, duodenum) is affected. Routes of infection: contact with soil in which larvae are located; through the mouth with soil-contaminated vegetables and herbs.

Signs of the presence of worms: itchy skin allergies; Coughing attacks (streaks of blood are visible in the sputum); increased body temperature, migraines. People feel dizzy and weak; Aches and pains in the bones (like with ARVI). I suffer from hunger pains.

After eating, you feel nauseous and may vomit. The stomach almost always swells after eating and the stomach hurts. After eating, diarrhea occurs two hours later. In contrast, many suffer from constipation due to impaired intestinal motility caused by worms. A person becomes sleepy and fatigue appears even without physical activity.

Is it worth taking anti-worm tablets for prevention?

If one of the family members has pinworms, preventive treatment is always carried out for the entire family.

Indications for the prophylactic use of drugs against helminths:

• presence of pets;
• constant contact with the ground (playing in the sand, villagers);
• if children live permanently in closed children's groups;
• regular trips to exotic countries;
• Hobbies: Fishing, hunting, beach volleyball, soccer.