Parasites Worms in Humans
Parasites are dependent on the host for some or all of their nourishment. They are organisms that live in or on a second organism where they may cause harm. Parasitism affects most life forms; they are not limited to humans alone. Nevertheless, humans are the subject to more than hundreds of parasites known to cause diseases. The most common types of parasites to infect people are parasitic worms in humans.
Parasitic Worms in Humans Symptoms
- Symptoms depend on the number of worms present in the intestine.
- Small lesions in the stomach: Worms engulf bits of tissue from the intestinal mucosa.
- Iron deficiency anemia: Parasitic worms in humans feed on the person’s blood and may consume 50ml of blood daily.
- Intestinal symptoms: Diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
- Allergic reactions: Caused by the toxins released by parasites worms in humans, example is urticaria.
- Underdevelopment: This happens when children are infected; they can be mentally and physically underdeveloped. They are lethargic, malnourished, undersized, and have protruding abdomens.
- Manifestations in the eyes: Pupils are dilated.
- Edema: Pedal edema is the most common symptom, but there may be edema in other parts of the body.
Parasites Worm in Human Causes
- Ingestion is the most common mode that causes parasitic worms in humans, through ingestion of eggs or larvae of worms in contaminated food and drinks.
- Skin penetration happens when we don’t wear shoes or slippers when walking on soil. Some worms have the capacity to penetrate through skin layers.
- What are the causes of ascaris worms
Treatment for Parasitic Worms in Humans
- Rest the bowel: This is achieved by eating or drinking nothing via our mouth, this is done until vomiting has stopped.
- Decrease diarrhea: Metronidazole and vancomycin are usually administered for parasitic worms in humans.
- Restore fluids and electrolytes: Clear liquids are initially given then later on increased as tolerated. Sports drinks can be used as an alternative for restoring fluids and electrolytes.