4 Ways to Identify Hookworms

1. Scratching the Itch

When hookworms get under your skin, your skin will feel itchy, and you may develop a red rash where the larvae penetrated. This rash is called "ground itch." Hookworms also can turn your skin pale, a shade you normally see when you're in shock or are ill.

2. Don't Ignore Early Warnings

Hookworm infection presents many internal symptoms. You may experience cough, fever and fatigue as though you have the flu. Some people lose their appetites and feel discomfort in their abdominal cavity, but those symptoms often depend on how much time the larvae had to settle. You may produce bloody sputum, a serious symptom. In the long term, hookworm infections can stunt mental and physical growth, so see a doctor as soon as you detect symptoms.

3. Read the Signs

Many symptoms of a hookworm infection are overt and easy to detect. You may feel nauseous or need to vomit. Diarrhea can accompany a case of hookworm, and tell-tale signs would include eggs and blood in your stool. If the symptoms don't keep you out of work or school, the increased gas production caused by an infection will keep you homebound

4. Monitor Any Symptoms

Although the list of symptoms for hookworm is long, doctors say that some light cases don't present symptoms. However, a large hookworm infestation can cause anemia. If you sense something is wrong with your body, record your symptoms and see a doctor. You might prevent a serious hookworm infection before you experience any severe symptoms.