What damage does the pinworm do?

The pinworm is a small, intestinal parasite that can infect humans. The pinworm's scientific name is Enterobius vermicularis. It is called pinworm because the worms are very thin and resemble straight pins.

Pinworms are tiny white worms that live in the intestines. They are about 1/2 inch long and have a pointed head and a blunt tail. Pinworms are most common in children, but they can also infect adults.

Pinworms can cause a number of symptoms, including:

• Anal itching, especially at night

• Wriggling or crawling sensations in the anal area

• Restlessness and difficulty sleeping

• Stomach pain and diarrhea

• Weight loss

• Irritability

In severe cases, pinworms can cause:

Malnutrition: Pinworms can steal nutrients from the food that you eat, leading to malnutrition.

Inflammation: Pinworms can cause inflammation in the intestines and rectum.

Infection: Pinworms can carry bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can cause infection.

Pinworms can migrate to the appendix and gallbladder, causing medical conditions.

Pinworm infections are diagnosed by finding the worms or their eggs in a stool sample. The doctor may also ask about the person's symptoms and examine the anal area.

Pinworm infections are treated with medication. The medication is taken orally and is usually taken for 2 weeks. The medication kills the worms and their eggs.

There are also a number of things that people can do to prevent pinworm infections. These things include:

1. Washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.

2. Avoiding touching the mouth or nose with unwashed hands.

3. Keeping fingernails short and clean.

4. Wearing underwear and pyjamas that fit snugly around the waist to prevent the spread of eggs from the anus to other parts of the body.

5. Changing underwear and pyjamas daily and washing them in hot water.

6. Avoiding close contact with people who are infected with pinworms.