Signs That May Indicate a Worm Infection
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Itching around the anus
- Weakness or anemia
- Restlessness or disturbed sleep in children
If these symptoms persist, medical advice should be sought.
How Often Should You Take Deworming Medicine?
The frequency of deworming depends on age, type of worm, severity of infection and the person’s overall health condition.
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In areas where worm infections are common, many public-health programmes provide deworming medicine to children every six months. However, routinely taking deworming medicine every six months is not necessarily required for all adults. Individual medical advice should be followed.
Albendazole and mebendazole are commonly used to treat several types of worm infections. However, the appropriate medicine, dose and duration depend on the type of infection and the patient’s age.
Who Should Take Extra Precaution?
Children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions and those who experience recurrent worm infections should avoid taking deworming medicine on their own and consult a healthcare professional.
How to Prevent Worm Infections
- Wash your hands with soap after using the toilet and before eating.
- Wash raw fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- Drink safe and clean water.
- Cook food thoroughly.
- Avoid walking barefoot on soil or in unhygienic areas.
- Keep fingernails short and clean.
- Keep toilets and the surrounding areas clean.
- Discourage children from eating with dirty hands.
Remember: Rather than repeatedly taking deworming medicine without guidance, it is more important to identify the type of infection and receive appropriate treatment. Consult a healthcare professional if you notice worms in the stool or experience persistent diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or anemia.