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| December 3rd, 2008 | |
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About ThreadwormsThis section is a self-help guide to understanding what threadworms are, how to spot them and how to treat them effectively. What are threadworms? Threadworm (Enterobius vermicularis) is a very common worm infestation in the UK. In fact, up to 40% of children under the age of 10 years may have threadworm1. Both children and adults can be infected, although it is mostly found in children. Threadworms (also known as pinworms) live in the bowel. They are tiny white worms, about half an inch (1cm) long, which look like "threads" of white cotton hence the name "threadworms".
What are the signs/symptoms of threadworms? The most common sign of threadworm is itchiness and scratching around the bottom. This is usually worse at night. Other signs to look for are: In some cases worms can enter the vagina or urinary passage, causing: Where do threadworms come from? Threadworms spread by laying large numbers of tiny eggs around the anus which can cause itching around the bottom. These eggs are so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye and they may be found in: They can also be picked up from contact with someone who already has threadworms. Threadworms can enter your system if the eggs are transferred onto your hands and are subsequently swallowed. Once the eggs are in the bowel, they hatch and develop into mature worms 2-6 weeks later.The threadworm lifecycle Threadworms are highly contagious, because their eggs are so easily spread. Eggs can live outside the body for up to 3 weeks. That is why it is advisable to treat the whole family and inform the school to prevent cross-infection.  1. Nathan, A. The Pharmaceutical Journal, 1997; 258: 770-771 
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