When roundworm or nematodes eggs enter the body, they release larvae that penetrate the intestine and migrate through the system. Taking measures to prevent roundworms in children is a lot easier than trying to evict them after they set up shop and start laying eggs.
Transmission of Roundworms to Kids
Roundworms live in the intestinal tracts of mammals. When infected animals pass feces, they release roundworm eggs into the soil and contaminate it. When your child plays or touches contaminated areas, he can ingest the eggs when he eats or puts his hands into his mouth without washing them.
Your child can also get roundworms from eating undercooked meat, eating clay, drinking contaminated milk or eating unwashed produce that was grown in contaminated soil.
When roundworm larva enter the body, they make their way to the intestines and hatch. When the eggs hatch, the roundworms travel to the lungs where they can be coughed up and swallowed. Once this happens, the roundworms travel back down to the intestines and lay their eggs.
Symptoms of Roundworm in Children
Symptoms of roundworm infections will vary from child to child. Some signs of infection may include:
- malnutrition
- allergic reactions
- anal or nose irritation and itching
- irritability
- nervousness
- shortness of breath
- blood or worms in the stool
- increased appetite
- pain in the abdomen
- dry or wheezing cough
Diagnosis and Treatments of Roundworms in Children
Doctors can do a physical exam and a stool or urine sample to determine if your child has roundworms. If your medical professional deems it necessary, she may also do an x-ray, ultrasound, skin biopsy, blood test or tape tests to see if parasites are present.
If a roundworm infestation is found, the doctor may prescribe anti-parasitic medications for your tyke. Treatments for kids who are malnourished from parasite infections may also include nutritional supplements. In rare instances where roundworms cause obstructions in the digestive tract, surgery may be necessary.
How to Prevent Roundworm Infection in Children
To prevent roundworm infections, encourage your child to wash his hands before eating, after playing outside, after using the restroom and after having contact with pets or pet belongings. Also, handle and cook meat thoroughly, have your pets dewormed by a veterinarian and wash produce before allowing your child to eat it.
Using measures to prevent parasites in a child is always easier than the alternative. However, if your youngster gets roundworms, it’s not the end of the world. A medical professional can effectively treat the infestation so your child can return to his normal, healthy self.
References:
University of Maryland Medical Center. "Roundworms" (accessed December 1, 2010).
Emedicine. "Nematode Infections" (accessed December 1, 2010).
Charlina Stewart - Charlina has dedicated more than a decade of her life making a positive difference in the lives of children. During her time as an early ...
