Tests that can help diagnose the infection include:
- Complete blood count (CBC) with differential.
- Stool ova and parasites exam.
- This disease may also affect the results of a D-xylose absorption test.
Treatment for hookworm infections aims to get rid of the parasites, improve nutrition, and treat complications from anemia. Your doctor will prescribe medications that destroy parasites, such as albendazole and mebendazole. These medications are generally taken for one to three days to treat the infection.
Your doctor might also have you take an iron supplement if you have anemia. Your doctor will also help you recover from any nutritional deficiencies you have.