Common parasite threatens health worldwide. Signs and treatment of roundworm infection

Areas with poor sanitation standards are primarily at risk of human roundworm infestation, as the parasites thrive in contaminated soil or water. Children are particularly vulnerable because they tend not to adhere to proper hygiene practices while playing outdoors. The roundworm infection occurs when larvae, which get on the hands from touching contaminated soil or unwashed vegetables, are ingested.

Once ingested, roundworms become parasites in their host, absorbing nutrients from the digested food. With a lifespan of up to two years, these roundworms can migrate throughout the human body, posing a significant threat to health and development.

Ascaridiasis, the technical term for a roundworm infection, can manifest as asymptomatic or, in severe instances, cause symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, facial swelling, heightened excitability, allergic reactions, irregular bowel movements, abdominal discomfort, weight loss, vomiting, and in some cases, respiratory symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing during the phase when larvae migrate to the lungs.

More grave complications may arise from ascariasis, such as intestinal obstruction, bile duct and pancreatic duct blockage, acute pancreatitis, and respiratory tract obstruction.

The treatment approach for ascariasis primarily involves administering antiparasitic drugs to paralyze or eliminate roundworms, facilitating their removal from the body. Maintaining a high personal and environmental hygiene standard is paramount to prevent reinfection.

It is important to note that failing to administer adequate treatment and preventive measures can lead to chronic infection, which can be especially precarious for children, as it can result in malnutrition and stunted growth.