The three most common types of intestinal worm in the United States are pinworms, tapeworms and roundworms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Together, they make up a group of parasites called helminths. While none of the three conditions is usually fatal, it can lead to unpleasant side effects and affect your child's health and happiness.
Pinworm Symptoms
Pinworm affects up to a third of US children, according to Hardin Library for the Health Sciences at the University of Iowa. Because worms lay eggs around the anus at night, symptoms include insomnia and waking up in an irritable mood. General itching around the anus is common. Female children may also experience itching in the vaginal area. Both sexes may experience spells of nausea and abdominal pain, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Tapeworm Symptoms
Tapeworm infection comes in two forms: intestinal and invasive. Children infected with intestinal tapeworm may not display any visible symptoms for some time. However, some children will show signs similar to other intestinal worm conditions, including nausea and abdominal pain. If your child has tapeworm they may also show a lack of appetite. They may start to lose weight and become weaker over time, according to the Mayo Clinic. Diarrhea is another symptom to look out for, as well as segments of worm in the stool.
Roundworm Symptoms
The roundworm Ascariasis affects up to a billion people worldwide, according to the University of Maryland. The larvae start in the lungs before travelling via the throat to the intestines. Your child may cough or become short of breath during the larval stage in the lungs. While in the intestines, symptoms of adult roundworm include pains in the stomach, feelings of sickness and some diarrhea. Children may also lose weight and strength. It's sometimes possible to see evidence of worms and even blood in the stool.
