Hookworm infestation happens when worms are swallowed through normal eating and drinking. They travel through the digestive system and into the small intestine, where they mature into adults. There are largely no symptoms until complications arise. According to the American Medical Association (AMA), people living in the tropics, subtropics and parts of the world where there are problems with sanitation and waste control, are more likely to contract hookworm. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, complete recovery is possible with treatment.
Anemia
People with heavy hookworm infestations may have several hundred worms living in their small intestine. The hookworms use their sharp, hook-like mouths to cling to the intestine walls, and suck blood. According to the AMA, people with heavy infestations can lose up to one-tenth of a pint of blood every day. This can result in anemia, a condition where there is a lack of red blood cells in the blood. According to Pennsylvania State University's Hershey Medical Center, anemia symptoms include fatigue, brittle nails, decreased appetite, headache, irritability, pale skin and shortness of breath.
Pneumonia
In heavy infestations, the migration of the larvae through the lungs can produce pneumonia. If not treated, it can cause death. Symptoms include chills, fever, shortness of breath and a cough.
Abdominal discomfort
Heavy infestations of hookworms can cause fluid to build up in the abdomen, leading to abdominal discomfort. According to the Hershey Medical Center, the fluid build-up, called ascites, occurs in the space between the abdominal organs and the lining of the abdomen. The fluid and discomfort usually go away once the infestation is treated.
Nutrition problems
Hookworms are parasites that steal nutrients from your body when they suck your blood. This can cause nutritional deficiencies, particularly protein. According to the AMA, in addition to eradicating the infestation with parasite-killing medications, doctors recommend a high-protein diet to remain healthy.
References
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center
- "Encyclopedia of Medicine;" The American Medical Association; 1989
- University of Maryland Medical Center
