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Treatments for Worms in Children

Parasite worm infections are common in children. Most children become infected by coming in contact with other infected children or by unsanitary practices, such as eating food from the ground or by consuming contaminated food or drinks. Pinworms are the most common worm infection. They are characterized by tiny white worms that are about a centimeter long. Signs that your child may have worms include itching near the buttocks or genitals, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, irritability and the presence of worms in his stool. Most worms live in the intestines and they consume a lot of the nutrients, depriving the body of the sustenance on which it needs to be healthy.

  1. Prescription Drugs

    • Take an anthelmintic, anti-parasitic drug prescribed by your doctor to treat the worms. This medication can come in the form of a pill or liquid solution. A second course is usually required two weeks later to ensure that all worms are killed because it can take up to two weeks for new worms to hatch from the eggs. In some cases, entire families need to be treated to reduce the risk of recurring infection. Contact your doctor to determine the most effective course for treatment.

    Natural Remedies

    • Coconut is the most effective home remedy for all types of intestinal worms, according to Home Remedies for you. They recommend 1 tbsp. of freshly ground coconut during breakfast, followed by 1 to 2 oz. of castor oil mixed with 8.5 to 13 oz. of lukewarm water after three hours. Other remedies suggested are eating a small cup of grated carrots every morning and putting fresh garlic cloves in your shoes and walking around and allowing the garlic oil to enter your bloodstream through your feet.

    Change Your Bedding

    • Change your bedding and wash in extremely hot water all blankets, towels, wash cloths and clothes that your child wears. Do not allow your child to share a bed or clothing with anyone until he has finished treatment and is cured from the worms.

    Prevent Reoccurance

    • Once the worms have been treated, it's important to discontinue behaviors that may have contributed to the worm infection to avoid getting worms again. Teach your child to wash his hands throughout the day, especially after going to the restroom and petting animals. Remind your child not to put things in his mouth, especially if the objects have been on the floor. Only drink clean water and limit exposure to raw meats.

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