The most common intestinal worms in the United States are called pinworms. Pinworms are thin, white parasites that can measure 1/4 to 1/2 inch. According to Kids Health, pinworm infections affect millions or people per year. School-aged children are affected more frequently than any other age group.
Causes
People become infected with pinworms when they swallow tiny pinworm eggs. The eggs are so small that they cannot be seen so they are usually ingested without awareness. Pinworm eggs may be present on contaminated food or in contaminated drinks. Pinworm eggs can also live on non-edible surfaces, such as bed linens, towels, underwear, toilets, school lunch tables and sandboxes. The pinworm eggs from non-edible surfaces are ingested when a person touches a contaminated object and puts her hands or fingers in or near the mouth. Pinworms can also be spread through direct contact with infected individuals.
After Ingestion
Once the pinworm eggs are ingested, the eggs pass through the digestive system unharmed and hatch in the small intestine. The pinworms then travel to the large intestine in the larva stage. The larva attach to the walls of the large intestine, acting as a parasite, where they remain for 1 to 2 months. When the pinworms become adults, they detach from the intestinal walls and travel to the rectum. MayoClinic.com notes that the female pinworms will lay their eggs around the rectum.
Symptoms
Kids Health notes that many people who are infected with pinworms may not experience any symptoms. In those who do experience symptoms, one of the most common is itching in and around the anus due to the newly laid eggs. The itching usually becomes more intense at night. Females with a pinworm infection may experience abnormal vaginal discharge if the pinworms travel from the anus to the vagina. Another common symptom is restless sleep, which is often accompanied by irritability. In their adult forms, pinworms will also be visible around the anus. They may also be seen on toilet seats or in the toilet after using the restroom.
Treatment
Pinworm infections can be successfully treated with two single dosages of anti-parasitic medication. The first dose will be given as soon as the infection is discovered, and the second dose will be given approximately two weeks later, according to Medline Plus. Because pinworms are contagious, it is recommended to treat everyone in the household of an infected person.
Possible Complications
Most pinworm infections do not cause any complications. If the infestation is severe, it can lead to urinary tract infections or severe weight loss. Some people may also develop an infection in the peritoneal cavity, which holds the female reproductive organs.
