Pinworm Scab Treatment

A pinworm infection occurs in the intestine and is caused by pinworm, threadworm or seatworm. This infection is common in the United States and occurs most often in children. The most common way this infection is spread is when an infected person improperly washes his hands. Anal or vaginal itching are the most noticeable symptoms. If there is severe scratching scabs may form around the area that has been scratched.

Prescription Medications

• Mild cases of pinworm infection with scabs can be treated with anti-parasite medication. Medications to eliminate the parasites are usually effective in mild cases. This infection spreads easily and medication may be prescribed to people close to the infected person as a preventative measure.

  Anti-parasite (anti-helminthic) medications such as Albendazole (Albenza) or Pyrantel (Pin-X) are the most common first line treatments. These medications work to cure and prevent the infection by killing the adult worms and the larvae and eggs. When a scab has formed this treatment will aid in the prevention of infection. This treatment may have mild gastrointestinal side effects. Your doctor may prescribe multiple dosages to completely eliminate pinworm infection.

  Vermox (mebendazole) is a chewable tablet that is used to treat pinworm with a single dose. It works to kill the pinworms but this form of treatment does not kill the eggs. Side effects have been reported very rarely but include hives, allergic rashes and convulsions.

  Those who experience vaginal itching as the only symptom, with no scabbing, may not require treatment; this symptom typically subsides on its own.

Prescription Cream

• When severe anal or vaginal itching occurs you may be prescribed a soothing cream or ointment. These treatments soothe the itching, thereby eliminating scratching that may lead to scarring and scabs. Use this ointment until the pinworm is eliminated and the itching subsides. Reinfection of pinworms is common so it is very important to avoid scratching around the anal and vaginal area.

Good Hygeine

• Good hygiene is the most essential part in preventing pinworms and scabbing. Clean your toilet seat twice a day, maintain clean fingernails and thoroughly clean any infected clothing and sheets to help prevent reinfections. Your finger nails may be contaminated with parasite eggs. Thoroughly wash your hands after a bowel movement to help prevent pin worm infection and softly rub or scratch to prevent scabs and scarring. Pinworms can remain on a surface for several weeks; clean your bathroom regularly, change your undergarments daily and keep fresh sheets on your bed.