How to treat ascaris worms?

Are you feeling a little wormy today? Did you know that one of the most common parasitic infections is caused by the notorious Ascaris lumbricoides, or better known as intestinal roundworm? Don’t worry, though. Dealing with these creepy critters may seem like a daunting task. But never fear; this article on how to treat ascaris worms will give you all the information and tips (good ones) you need for getting rid of those squirmers!

What Are Ascariasis And Its Symptoms?

Ascariasis is a medical term used to describe an infection caused by Ascaris worms in humans’ small intestines (they don’t have big bloodsheds). These parasites are more prevalent in developing countries where poor hygiene and lack of sanitation practices exist, but it’s not limited to these areas only (hey, even your fancy sushi place can get contaminated sometimes).

The symptoms vary from mild digestive discomfort such as abdominal pain or bloody stools (gross) to severe complications including liver damage due to lodging adult worms in bile ducts. Infants and young children are most vulnerable because their underdeveloped immune system fails at fighting off the invaders.

It might be challenging (you’re so screwed) detecting ascariasis since many patients exhibit no signs at all. Still, some noteworthy indications include feverishness accompanied by coughing up phlegm or experiencing wheezing issues since larvae movements can stimulate airways linings.

How To Diagnose Ascariasis

If you suspect that pesky roundworm has invaded your body after gallivanting through risky environments (side note– fast foods also fall under risky environments), seeking prompt medical care is essential course taken rather than opting for layman solutions such as home remedies!

Several diagnostic methods would help health professionals identify whether its an ascariasis case or not. Blood tests will likely be done first to check for indicators of increased white blood cells or eosinophilia, reflecting a parasitic invasion in the host’s body. Your doctor may also recommend examining stool samples since Ascaris eggs are often found in these specimens under microscopy (you might prefer not to see that up close).

Treating Ascariasis: Not Just A Walk In The Park

It’s better never to self-medicate without consulting professional medical advice when you suspect an intestinal parasitic disease like ascariasis because it can lead to serious complications (side note-complication entails doing two things at once).

Various effective antiparasitics (not your regular flu medicines) are available depending on the person’s age and overall health status, focusing on eradicating adult worms from your small intestine.

Here are some treatments commonly used by medical practitioners and their side effects:

Treatment Side Effect
Albendazole Gastrointestinal disturbances
Mebendazole Skin rash
Ivermectin Dizziness, nausea

(disclaimer: Before stepping foot onto any treatment course, seek expertise instructions from a licensed physician)

Take note that few drugs eradicate larval stages; therefore, you should take second doses prescribed per schedule (no cheating) even if feeling much better before reaching the finish line.

How To Safeguard Yourself Against Ascariasis

Prevention is way better than cure (come on we all have heard this one!). Prevention methods include increasing hygiene standards around oneself as well as surroundings including wastewater disposal systems to reduce infection transmission through water matrices .

Simple measures recommended below can help reduce your risks of Ascaris infestation-

  • Keep hands clean: Regular hand washing with soap and running water or alcohol-based sanitizer aiming disinfecting microorganisms present helps mitigate contamination risk.
  • Properly dispose of waste: Since Ascaris eggs pass out of the infected body through feces and survive in the environment, avoiding open defecation around water sources or farmland minimizes infection.
  • Wash fruits & veggies: Ensure only thoroughly washed produce is consumed to prevent ingestion of viable larva unknowingly embedded in the plant species used.

Conclusion

Ascaris worms may be creepy critters that seem impossible (Mortal Kombat for non-gamers) to control. With careful consideration about personal hygiene standards and simple prevention measures, you can give yourself a fighting chance against these intestines invading parasites. Sometimes treatment might require potent medications prescribed by physicians rendering effective cure. Don’t wait until it’s too late; visit your physician immediately if suspecting an Ascariasis case (Don’t be shy)!

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