ROUNDWORMS

There are several types of roundworms and roundworm infections, including:

• Ascaris lumbricoides (also called human roundworm)- the most common roundworm infection
• Hookworm infections
• Guinea worm disease
• Filariasis
• Threadworm (pinworm)
• Trichuriasis (whipworm)
• Anisakiasis
• Strongyloidiasis
• Toxocariasis
• Gnathostomiasis
• Anisakiasis

Symptoms of roundworms in the lungs include:

• Coughing or gagging
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Aspiration pneumonia, rarely
• Blood in mucus
• Chest discomfort
• Fever

Symptoms of roundworms in the intestines include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Irregular stools or diarrhea
• Intestinal blockage, which causes severe pain and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Visible worms in the stool
• Abdominal discomfort or pain
• Weight loss
• Growth impairment in children due to malabsorption

Other symptoms are:

• Fatigue
• Extreme discomfort

DIAGNOSIS

To diagnose roundworm infection, the doctor may ask for a stool sample to be examined in the laboratory. Once the presence of these parasites are determine, the doctor may call for other tests such as imaging tests and endoscopy to know how many worms have grown to maturity and where major groups of worms are inside the body.

TREATMENT

Antiparasitic drugs are used to treat roundworm infection.

Most medications used are:

• Mebendazole
• Piperazine
• Albendazole

Surgical treatment may be recommended for advance cases such as if the roundworms are completely blocking the intestines.

PREVENTION

To prevent infestation of roundworms in your body, you must:

• Practice hygienic habit such as washing your hands regularly
• Be careful on what you drink or eat
• Avoid consuming raw foods