Roundworms in Humans - Symptoms

Roundworms are parasitic, invertebrate worms belonging to the phylum Nematoda. These worms have unsegmented elongated bodies that are pointed at the ends. Certain roundworms are microscopic, whereas some can be visible to the naked eye. Ascaris Lumbricoides (causing Ascariasis), pinworm, hookworm and whipworm are the major types of roundworms. These parasites can be found anywhere, in soil, in bodies of animals as well as humans. Roundworm infection is commonly found in hot or tropical climates.

Roundworm Infection in Humans
Roundworms are found in the intestines, the gastrointestinal tract and sometimes, even in lungs of human beings. They are intestinal parasites. Roundworm infection is commonly observed in children than in adults. Eggs of roundworms (never the mature worms) enter human body through contaminated food, water and soil. Children are more prone to this infection as they play in the dirt and mud, and are not aware of the importance of maintaining hygiene. Roundworm infection can give rise to several symptoms in human beings. So, what are the symptoms of roundworms in humans? Let us take a look.

Roundworm Symptoms in Humans
There can be mild to severe symptoms of roundworms in humans, depending on the type of worm and its number in the human body. The following are the common symptoms of roundworms found in humans.

• Weight loss / inability to gain weight
• Diarrhea
• Lack of appetite
• Abdominal discomfort / pain
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Malnutrition (in children)
• Insomnia (in adults)
• Anorexia nervosa (in adults)
• Allergies

In some cases, symptoms like that of flu, like cough, sweating and fever are also observed. Now, the aforementioned are the common symptoms of roundworm infection. The symptoms also vary according to the type of roundworm. Following are the signs and symptoms observed in case of other infections.

Pinworm Infection

• Vaginal or anal itching
• Lack of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain

Hookworm Infection

• Severe stomach pain
• Lack of appetite
• Diarrhea / constipation
• Cough
• Chest pain
• Breathing disorders
• Iron / protein deficiency
• Rash
• Fever

Whipworm Infection

• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea / vomiting
• Blood in stool
• Lack of appetite
• Anemia

Ascariasis

• Stomach pain
• Abdominal distension
• Lack of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Nausea / vomiting
• Weight loss
• Blood in stool
• Cough
• Weakness

You must have observed that the symptoms are more or less the same. It should be noted that not all symptoms are always observed in every case. However, the classic symptoms like weight loss, lack of appetite and diarrhea, etc. are found in all cases, and hence, should not be ignored.

Treating Roundworm Infection in Humans
If you experience the aforementioned symptoms or notice roundworms or blood in stools, you must immediately consult the doctor. Blood and stool test help in diagnosing roundworm infection. Treatment of roundworms is possible with the help of anti-parasitic drugs. These medication vary according to the type of roundworm found in the body, and are highly effective in managing and expelling roundworms from the body. However, pregnant women are advised against the use of these drugs. Pregnant women should consult the doctor immediately, if these symptoms are observed, and take medication that is prescribed. On the other hand, you should also be aware that infection of roundworms in humans can be chronic. Therefore, if you experience the symptoms even after being treated, you will have to undergo other treatment for the complete extermination of roundworms.

Preventing Roundworm Infection in Humans
As mentioned above, roundworms can enter the human body from contaminated food, water and soil. Therefore, it is extremely necessary to follow good hygiene habits like washing hands before having meals, or after using the bathroom, etc. Similarly, having a bath everyday, wearing clean clothes and disposing waste regularly from the house is essential. Children should especially be encouraged to follow these habits of cleanliness and hygiene. On the other hand, you should also have nutritious and balanced diet, clean and hygienic food to avoid roundworm infection through food. It is also better to avoid eating uncooked or left over food.

Hope this article has cleared your queries and doubts about roundworm infection in humans. Lastly, you should remember that although it is possible to treat roundworm infection in humans, prevention is the best cure. Therefore, you must follow all the precautionary measures to avoid this infection. Take care!