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WORM INFESTATION
Worms (Helminths) are parasites that live in the intestines and derive nutrition from the child’s
diet. A worm infection, also termed Helminth infection, is one of the causes of stomach ache in
children. As these infections are common, it is best to be aware of the different types of worms,
Once the parasite is in the lung or another organ, the worm stimulates an inflammatory respone
If worms enter the CSF of the spinal cord it can result in partial or total paralysis.
Cerebral cases result in cerebral cysticerosis (condition in which fluid-filled cysts surrounding
There are various types of worms that can breed in the human body. The most common worms
1. Tapeworms
Tapeworms, also called flatworms, have hooks and suckers that attach to the intestines and breed
on the partially digested food. A tapeworm can be as long as a few inches or even 40 feet in
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2. Roundworms
Roundworm infection is caused by the worm Ascaris lumbricoides. They are hollow in shape and
can grow 35 cm in length. Roundworms inhabit saltwater, soil and fresh water, and are generally
3. Pinworms/Threadworms
Pinworms, also termed threadworms, are small, thin, and white worms that reside in the rectum.
When the person sleeps, the female worm lays eggs in the anal area. This results in itching that
transfers the eggs to the child’s fingers. These eggs survive on clothes, bed linen and toilet seats,
and get ingested through contaminated food and drink. Pinworm infections are most common
4. Hookworms
Hookworms usually occur due to poor sanitation. These are small parasitic worms that attach
themselves to the intestinal walls. A child can catch a hookworm infection on coming into
Children seldom display symptoms of being infected. The infection could also be minimal and
therefore, go unnoticed. We recommend that you get your baby checked if you spot any of these
symptoms:
Foul-smelling stools
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Abdominal pain
Fatigue
Diarrhoea
Weight loss
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Lack of sleep
Jaundice
Irritability
Stomach trouble
Bowel issues
Constipation
Complications
Few serious complications are obstruction of the small intestine, appendiceal lumen, bile duct,
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Causes of a Worm Infection
Babies and young children are likely to get infected with worms while crawling and playing
outdoors. The most common causes that help the development of worms in babies are:
Diagnostic Investigation
1. Stool Examination:
A stool sample is sent to the lab to determine the presence of worms or worm eggs
2. Fingernails Examination:
The doctor examines the baby’s fingernails for worms or faeces underneath.
This test is specifically performed to detect threadworms. A piece of tape is placed on the baby’s
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4. Cotton Bud Swab:
A cotton bud is used to check the baby’s bottom for the presence of worm eggs.
5. Ultrasound Test:
This test is only performed in cases of severe infection. Here, the doctor uses ultrasound to detect
medicines. Depending on the severity of the infection, she may prescribe any of these
medications:
Pyrantel: It is another safe medicine for children often prescribed by the doctor.
Albendazole Tablet/ Suspension: can be used in children between 13-24 months of age. It
If you suspect worm infestation you should seek medical attention first. You can then use the
home remedies below as complementary treatments. Puree these ingredients before feeding:
Unripe Papaya: This has an enzyme, papain that acts as an anthelmintic and destroys the worms
in the intestine.
Garlic: This is a natural deworming agent and is highly effective in killing parasitic worms.
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Carom Seeds: These seeds are rich in thymol, which help prevent the growth of intestinal
Pumpkin Seeds: These seeds have cucurbitacin that can paralyze the worms and prevent their
Bitter Gourd: This helps fight the worms in the tummy. Mixing with water and honey masks the
bitter taste.
Neem: This has anti-parasitic properties and is useful in destroying various intestinal worms.
Carrots: Carrots have vitamin A that enhances a child’s immunity and helps to fight intestinal
Coconut: This has strong anti-parasitic properties, making it beneficial in treating worms. It can
Cloves: Cloves can destroy existing worms and their eggs and can also prevent future infection.
Worms are parasites that live in and derive nutrition from the body of their host. They impair
Worms cause the loss of iron and protein, and often lead to anaemia in children.
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They are also responsible for diarrhoea and dysentery in babies and toddlers.
competition for host’s nutrition and alterations in the intraluminal conditions of the small bowel.
They affect physical and mental development, resulting in the child being underweight or stunted
Maintaining good hygiene is vital to prevent the occurrence of worms in children. Babies
become vulnerable to worm infections once they start crawling and walking. So, it’s important to
Change your baby’s nappies regularly. Wash your hands every time you change the diaper.
Ensure that your toddler wears closed shoes while playing and washes his hands and feet after
returning home.
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Keep your baby’s potty seat clean.
Maintaining hygiene goes a long way in preventing worm infections. Some paediatricians
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