Worms are parasites that enter the body through contact or ingestion. Children can get worms from an infected person’s feces, or they can get them from contaminated food. Because worms have to have a live host, they cannot infect dead hosts, making their eggs harder to treat. If a child swallows worm eggs, they will develop in the small intestines and make a child’s bottom itch. When scratched, they can also spread to the mouth, causing children to swallow more eggs.
If you are worried that your child has worms, this article will fill you in on the crucial details you need to help you get rid of the issue.
Worms in Kids: A Quick Guide for Worried Parents
Worms are no joke. They can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. If your child is suffering from worms, they will experience the following symptoms:
Stomachache
Fever
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Loss of appetite
Treatments for worms in kids
1 – Antiparasitic tablets
The most common antiparasitic tablets for kids are Thiabendazole, Albendazole, and Mebendazole. They are all drugs that are used to treat worm infestations. They will kill the worm and expel it from the body. If taken regularly, they can prevent future infestations.
2 – Hydrocortisone for itching
In severe cases of worms in children, doctors will prescribe hydrocortisone. It will help relieve itching in the scalp, armpits, groin, or the anal area. It is also used to treat itching caused by contact with poison ivy and various other irritants.
3 – Medication for other family members
In most cases, if one family member is infected with worms, others are too. The doctor will prescribe meds to treat other family members to help prevent further infestations.
How Serious Is a Worm Infestation?
When a child accidentally ingests worm eggs, they will start to form in the small intestines and cause children to feel sick. They will experience abdominal cramping and diarrhea. They will also have a fever, a loss of appetite, and vomiting.
If the infection is not treated, it can cause a plethora of different health issues that include dehydration, malnutrition, intestinal blockages, blood poisoning, and even death. This is why it is paramount that you take your child to see a medical professional the moment you suspect their worm infestation.
Can Children Get Worms from Pets?
Yes, in some cases, they can. If your child is a pet owner, they might also bring in parasites. Pets can bring fleas, ticks, and worms into your home. However, worms are a major problem for dogs and cats. If worms are present in a pet, you should take them to see a vet. Some worms can cause problems for humans and pets.
Conclusion
If your child has worms, they can be very stubborn to get rid of. This is because they are living organisms that adapt quickly to changing situations. If you are responsible for a child who has worms, it is important that you keep up with your antiparasitic medication. It will prevent them from coming back.
If you need urgent pediatric care for worms, bring your child to Your Kids Urgent Care. Your Kids Urgent Care serves as the intermediary between a child’s primary care physician and the Emergency Room. When children get sick after-hours or on holidays, parents shouldn’t have to make the troublesome decision of either going to the Emergency Room or doing nothing.
