Pinworms in Adults

Pinworm is also referred to as seat worm or thread worm. It is a human intestinal parasite and is found mostly in children. It is spread after a person comes in contact with another person who is harboring the pinworms and unknowingly ingests microscopic pinworm eggs. After the egg is ingested, it hatches and develops into another adult pinworm. These adult pinworms in turn lay more eggs. Adult pinworms are big enough and can be seen easily through our naked eye. Their color is yellow or white and they have a thread like body and are usually one inch long. It is easy to detect the symptoms of pinworms and at the same time its treatment is also simple and if taken proper care, you can easily keep yourself away from pinworms. Read more on pinworms in humans and pinworms in children.

Symptoms of Pinworms in Adults

Though children are usually infected with pinworms they can also transfer these intestinal parasites to other adults in the family. One of the most common symptom of pinworms is rectal itching, which occurs mostly at midnight. The itching mostly happens at night because during that time, the female pinworm deposits eggs. The itching is also because of inflammatory response to the adult worm and its eggs in the perineal tissue. If the itching is severe, there is a possibility of the skin breaking down, which can lead to the development of secondary bacterial infections. Other symptoms are restless sleep, vaginal itching and irritation. Itching in genital area, pain or burn sensation while urinating, worms in stool, skin rashes, grinding of the teeth, anxiety, nausea and diarrhea. In some cases, pinworms might also cause fever, abdominal pain, bloody bowel movements and poor appetite. These are serious conditions and it signifies that pinworm has affected the body severely. If any of these symptoms are observed, then consulting a medical practitioner is a must. If adult pinworms are found in inflamed appendices, then the individual has to be operated in order to remove them.

Treatment for Pinworms in Adults

The most common treatment for pinworm is Albenza. It kills the worms completely. The patient has to take the second dose after two weeks, as the eggs still persist. This will reduce the chances of reinfection. In order to flush out pinworms and reduce its chances of reinfection, you can also opt for tap water enemas. Wash your hands clean, before you have your food. In order to destroy all lingering eggs thoroughly, launder all the bedding, clothing and children's toys. The bedding should be laundered at least twice a week. Scratching of anal region should be avoided. The fingernails should be kept small and clean and you should also avoid biting them. It is a must to vacuum the play area of children frequently.

This was all about pinworms in adults along with its symptoms, treatment and also ways to stay away from pinworms. The most important thing in order to stay away from pinworms is maintaining hygiene. Hope this article was informative to help you keep away from pinworms and maintain the health and wellness of your body.