Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) , also known as pinworm, is a type of roundworm that is white and thread-like. It has a size ranging from 2 to 13 millimeters and lives in the large intestine of humans and lays eggs around the anus. This type of worm can be found in people of all ages, but is most common in children. If infected, it is not considered dangerous and can be treated with deworming medication.
Symptoms of threadworm (pinworm) infection
Threadworm infection usually does not cause any symptoms, but some people may have mild abdominal pain and may have severe itching around the anus during the period when the parasites lay eggs. This usually occurs at night or while sleeping, resulting in poor sleep. If the patient scratches hard, it may irritate or cause sores around the anus. Causes of threadworm (pinworm) infection
Pinworms enter the body through the mouth and breathing. The eggs of this type of worm are so small that they are invisible to the naked eye and can live in dust for up to 2 weeks. They may contaminate clothes, towels, bed sheets or blankets, causing them to spread into the air and be inhaled without realizing it. They can also be transmitted through eating food or putting contaminated hands in the mouth.
Pinworm eggs hatch into parasites when they enter the body and live in the stomach for about 5-6 weeks before dying. The female parasite will come out to lay eggs around the anus at night because this is the time when the environment and weather are suitable. During this time, the infected person will feel itchy in that area. When scratching, the parasite eggs will stick to the fingers and nail crevices. If you put your hands in your mouth or pick up food without washing your hands first, it can result in re-infection with the parasite, especially in children whose immune systems are not as strong as adults.
Pinworms are most common in children because children are not yet good at taking care of their own hygiene, such as forgetting to wash their hands or sucking their fingers, and are at risk of touching objects or food contaminated with parasite eggs from other infected children. In addition, people who are close to people infected with the parasite are also at high risk of infection, including being in places where parasite infections are common, such as schools, daycare centers, and crowded communities. Pinworms cannot be transmitted from pets to humans because this type of parasite does not live in the animal body.
Diagnosis of threadworm (pinworm) infection
Initially, patients can observe pinworm infection from the appearance of their stool. If there are white threads in the stool, it can be assumed that there are pinworms in the body. However, if you are not sure or do not see the worms in the stool, patients should see a doctor for a definite examination. The doctor may use the following methods to test for pinworms:
- Tape collection: The doctor will have the patient collect a parasite sample using clear tape around the anus immediately after waking up. The tape is then placed in a sealed container and sent to the laboratory for further examination.
- Cotton swab sampling: Your doctor or nurse will use a cotton swab to swab around your anus to collect a sample of parasite eggs.
- Stool examination: The doctor will have the patient collect a small stool sample in a tightly closed container to be tested for parasites in a laboratory.
Treatment of threadworm (pinworm) infection
Patients infected with threadworms should be treated immediately by taking mebedazole and those living with the patient should also be treated. During this time, it is not necessary to stop studying or working because it will not affect the body in any way. However, you should take care of cleanliness and hygiene more according to the following recommendations.
- You should shower every morning to cleanse your rectum and other areas where worm eggs may enter your body.
- Wash your handsthoroughly every time after using the bathroom or before handling food.
- Change your underwear every day.
- Clean the house thoroughly, especially the bedroom, to remove dust that is a source of parasites or parasite eggs.
- Wash and change bed sheets frequently, especially within 7-10 days after treatment.
- Keep your nails trimmed short to prevent the build-up of parasite eggs.
- Children with worm infections should wear gloves while sleeping to reduce irritation from scratching.
- Do not eat in bed.
- Avoid eating foods that contain sugar. Eat foods that are high in fiberto prevent constipation , which will affect the removal of parasites from the body.
Complications of threadworm (pinworm) infection
If pinworm infection is not treated promptly, it can lead to complications, especially in women where pinworms may enter the vagina and cause inflammation inside the vagina. It can also affect the uterus, fallopian tubes, or other organs in the pelvic area. In addition, it can cause patients to not get enough necessary nutrients because the parasites compete for absorption of nutrients, resulting in weight loss or malnutrition.
Prevention of threadworm (pinworm) infection
The best way to prevent pinworm infection is to maintain good hygiene and sanitation for yourself and your family. Here’s how:
- Wash your hands with soap every time after using the toilet or changing a diaper, before preparing food, and before eating.
- Keep your nails short and clean at all times. Also, avoid nail biting or scratching habits, as these can increase the risk of parasite eggs entering your body or spreading.
- Take a shower to clean your body and change your underwear every morning to prevent the spread of pinworms.
- Wash your clothes, towels, and bedding frequently in hot water to remove pinworm eggs that may have been contaminated without your knowledge.
- Keep the room clean and open the windows to let sunlight into the room, as parasite eggs cannot tolerate sunlight.
