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Signs of Whipworms

Whipworms are intestinal parasites that are a species of nematode, or roundworm. Whipworm infections occur when dirt containing whipworm eggs are accidentally ingested off dirty hands or improperly washed fruits and vegetables. Whipworm infections can afflict both humans or animals and, after diagnosis, can be effectively treated with benzimidazole drugs such as mebendazole or albendazole. Until treated, however, these infections will cause a characteristic set of progressively worsening symptoms in the host.

  1. Diarrhea

    • The first sign of an intestinal whipworm problem is the onset of diarrhea, which often contains blood. Unlike other parasitical worms such as tapeworms or hookworms, whipworms do not use the food in their host's digestive tract to survive--they feed directly off the host's intestinal wall tissue. The breakdown of this tissue disrupts the digestive process and causes bleeding.

    Anemia

    • As the whipworm infestation progresses, the amount of intestinal blood loss can result in iron-deficiency anemia. Because of the blood loss caused by the whipworms in the intestinal tract, the host's red blood cell level gradually decreases. With the decreasing red blood cell count, less oxygen can be carried to the body's cells. The individual may begin to experience shortness of breath, unusual fatigue and chest pain.

    Dehydration

    • As more blood and fluid is lost due to the whipworm infection, the person may become dehydrated. Their skin may become dry and flushed and their urine will darken in color. They will be excessively thirsty, have a dry mouth, chills, and a greatly decreased appetite.

    Vitamin A deficiency

    • Long-term cases of whipworm infection can lead to disorders related to deficiencies in certain vitamins and nutrients that the intestinal tract cannot absorb in large enough quantities. In individuals infected with whipworms, Vitamin A deficiency is the most common. Severe Vitamin A deficiency can cause serious problems with the eyes, including night blindness, as well as a weakened immune system, and a decrease in the amount of enamel on the teeth.

    Rectal prolapse

    • In the most severe untreated cases of whipworm infection, rectal prolapse can occur. In this condition, the excessive amounts of diarrhea caused by the whipworms weakens the ligaments and muscles that are responsible for keeping the rectum in place and portions of the rectum slide down through the anus and extend outside of the body.

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