How to Find Round Worms

Roundworms are a large group of different species of worm that can infect both humans and animals. The worms live as parasites in the host's stomach or gut, feeding off the food that the person or animal eats. Although some roundworms are noninvasive and will never be noticed, it's more likely that a roundworm infection will cause some nasty side effects. Watch your dog or child for a couple of symptoms that will point to a roundworm infection.

Instructions

• 1

  Consider your dog or child's lifestyle. Although most puppies have access to areas that have roundworms, many children don't. Roundworm eggs are found in dirty areas where sanitation is lacking. They get on the hands of children who play in the dirt and are transferred to the mouth. Once they are swallowed, a roundworm infection starts.

• 2

  Diagnose the external symptoms of a possible roundworm infection. These could include coughing, rash, sores, abdominal pain, weight loss, diarrhea, bloody stool, loss of appetite, weight loss and fever. People who have a roundworm infection will display several of these symptoms at once.

• 3

  Check your child or dog's stool to confirm your diagnosis. If they are infected with roundworms the worms will be obvious in any waste. They are long, white and round. Proceed to the doctor immediately if your child has worms, or to the vet for your puppy.