Ascaris lumbricoides infection
What is an Ascaris lumbricoides Infection?
An Ascaris Lumbricoides infection is an infection caused by the parasitic roundworm, Ascaris Lumbricoides. The parasite lives in the intestines of humans and causes various forms of disease depending on the stage of the infection. The three main forms of Ascaris Lumbricoides infection are ascariasis, enterobiasis, and larva migrans.
Symptoms of Ascaris Lumbricoides Infection
Most infected individuals are asymptomatic, but symptoms can occur with more serious cases. Symptoms can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Coughing
Treatment of Ascaris Lumbricoides Infection
Treatment for Ascaris Lumbricoides infection includes medications to kill the adult worms. These medications include albendazole and mebendazole. The medications will need to be taken for around three days. In cases of severe infection, surgery may be needed to remove the worms from the intestine.
Complications of Ascaris Lumbricoides Infection
Complications of an Ascaris Lumbricoides infection include impaired growth, malnutrition, intestinal perforation, bile duct obstruction, appendix obstruction, and anemia.
Prevention of Ascaris Lumbricoides Infection
Prevention methods of an Ascaris lumbricoides infection include:
- Washing hands thoroughly after using the toilet, changing a diaper, or before eating.
- Cooking all food, especially pork, to kill any parasites.
- Washing vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- Avoiding drinking contaminated water.
- Covering any wounds to reduce the risk of infection.