Although more common in children, intestinal worms can also occur in adults. Symptoms of worms in adults can vary, depending on the type of worm that infects the body.
Basically, the symptoms of worms in adults are not much different from the symptoms of worms in children. Worms can cause a variety of symptoms, from itching in the anus or vagina; digestive organ disorders, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting; to weight loss.
Various Symptoms of Worms in Adults
The following are some of the symptoms of worms in adults based on the type of worms:
1. Symptoms of intestinal worms due to pinworms
Pinworms are one of the most common intestinal worms, both in children and adults. This pinworm infection is better known as keremian. Some of the symptoms of worms caused by pinworms are:
- Itching around the anus, especially at night and can interfere with sleep
- Skin irritation and rash around the anus due to frequent scratching
- Stomach pain and nausea
- Decreased appetite
2. Symptoms of worms caused by hookworms
Itching and rashes on the feet are early symptoms of a hookworm infection that often goes unnoticed. These symptoms can occur when hookworms enter the skin. After the skin, the worms can enter the digestive system and cause several, such as:
- Stomach ache
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Anemia
3. Symptoms of worms due to roundworms
People who suffer from roundworm infection or ascariasis will experience symptoms that are divided into 2 stages, namely symptoms when the larvae are in the lungs and throat, then when the larvae return to the intestine and become adult worms.
Symptoms that can be felt in the first stage include cough, fever, shortness of breath, and wheezing. While the symptoms of the second stage or when the adult worms are in the intestine are:
- Stomach ache
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Diarrhea
- bloody CHAPTER
- Loss of appetite and weight
4. Symptoms of intestinal worms due to tapeworms
Symptoms of worms caused by tapeworms vary, depending on the location of the larval infection in the body. If the larvae infect the intestines, symptoms that can appear include nausea, weakness, diarrhea, and decreased appetite and weight
If tapeworm larvae move out of the intestines and into other organs, the symptoms of intestinal worms that appear can be severe and dangerous, including:
- Headaches and seizures if they attack the brain
- Lumps or cysts on the liver
- Allergic reaction
5. Symptoms of intestinal worms due to trichinosis worms
Trichinosis is a disease caused by a species of roundworm named Trichinella which can infect the intestines and muscles. When first infected with this worm, sufferers may not feel symptoms. However, sometimes there are also those who experience diarrhea, stomach cramps, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.
One week after the initial infection, the larvae of the worms Trichinella can infect muscle tissue. Some of the symptoms that can appear are:
- Joint and muscle pain
- High fever
- Headache
- Swelling of the face
- Sensitivity to light
Symptoms of intestinal worms in adults should not be underestimated because this parasitic infection can cause fatal complications, although the occurrence is rare.
Generally, the symptoms of worms in adults can be overcome by taking worm medicine according to the type of worm infection. However, make sure you always follow the instructions listed on the packaging or doctor's recommendations. No less important is that you must continue to maintain a clean life to avoid worm infections.
If you or your family members experience symptoms of intestinal worms, you should first consult with your doctor about the right treatment.