Parasitic worms

Worms classified as a parasite are called parasitic worms. Parasites are organisms that live in or on human or animals and deriving nutrition and protection while disrupting their host by causing disease. Parasite worms, also called helminthes, live in humans.

Reproduction:

Parasitic worms reproduce depending on the species of the worm. They reproduce either by-

• Presence of male and female worm.
• Joining sperm and egg.
• Producing fertile eggs.
• Breaking off segments that contain both male and female sex organs. These types of worms can produce fertile eggs without the presence of a male or female. E.g. Tapeworms.

How are parasitic worms passed?

• All worm offspring are passed through either poorly cooked meat, especially pork, contaminated water, feces and mosquitoes.
• They can also be passed through pets, air, wild animals, and objects such as door handles and toilet seats.

Once the eggs or larvae or even adult worms enter the body through mouth, anus, nose or skin, they migrate to the intestine, hatch, mature and multiply.

Common helminthes and their effects on their hosts:

• Pinworms: These are also known as threadworms and live the intestines. Pinworm infection is the most common condition found worldwide. Its eggs usually enter the body through mouth, anus or nose. The symptoms are anal itching, especially during night times, when the female worms are most active. However, pinworms are not dangerous. Proper treatment cures pinworm infection within few days.
• Trichina Spiralis: This worm also lives in the intestine and causes serious illness called as trichinosis. The egg enters the body through undercooked meat. The eggs hatch, grow and migrate to other parts of the body by entering the bloodstream. Symptoms start with vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps then results in high fever, puffiness of face and muscle pain. The worm can penetrate the muscles, heart, and brain causing death. Treatment include an anti worm drug such as thiabendazole, bed rest and doctor’s attention. Recovery may take several months.
• Tapeworm: These are intestinal parasites with enter the body through uncooked beef. Usually there are no symptoms but some patients may experience abdominal pain, fatigue and weight loss. Treatment with medication can cure this disease within few days.

Some parasitic worms may cause serious illness if not diagnosed in time. Proper treatment is also essential to prevent further complications in the immune system. If helminthes spread, it excretes toxins after feeding, which can adversely affect the host’s lymphatic system. The toxins are absorbed by the host’s bloodstream which makes the host more prone to common diseases such as viruses and bacterial infections.