Overview
Ascariasis is a type of roundworm infection where parasitic worms use the human body as a host to mature from larvae or eggs to adult worms. These worms can be more than a foot long and can cause mild to severe symptoms depending on the extent of the infection. Ascariasis is uncommon in the United States but more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions with poor sanitation and hygiene. Common symptoms include respiratory issues, abdominal pain, and slowed growth in children. To prevent ascariasis, practice good hygiene, wash hands and fruits/vegetables, and use bottled water and avoid raw vegetables when traveling.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of ascariasis can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the part of the body affected. Most people with ascariasis have mild or no symptoms, but some may experience the following:
- Respiratory symptoms: If the larvae migrate to the lungs, you may experience symptoms similar to asthma or pneumonia, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
- Abdominal symptoms: In cases of heavy infestation, a mass of worms can block a portion of the intestine, causing severe abdominal cramping, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Intestinal blockage can also lead to a hole in the intestinal wall or appendix, causing internal bleeding or appendicitis.
Development
Ascariasis develops through several stages:
- Ingestion: The infection starts when a person accidentally ingests (swallows) microscopic ascariasis eggs through hand-to-mouth contact or by consuming uncooked fruits or vegetables grown in contaminated soil.
- Migration: The larvae hatch from the ingested eggs in the small intestine and then penetrate the intestinal wall, traveling to the heart and lungs via the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
- Maturation: In the lungs, the larvae mature for about 10 to 14 days. They then move up the throat, where they are coughed up and swallowed, returning to the intestines.
- Maturation (continued): Once back in the intestines, the parasites grow into male or female worms. Female worms can be more than 15 inches (40 centimeters) long and a little less than a quarter inch (6 millimeters) in diameter, while male worms are generally smaller. The development of ascariasis is facilitated by poor sanitation and hygiene, especially in areas where human feces mix with local soil.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you suspect ascariasis, it is advisable to consult a doctor if you or your child has unexplained symptoms, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, particularly if these symptoms have lasted for two to four weeks or have appeared suddenly. In some cases, ascariasis can cause serious complications, such as lung infections, obstruction of the intestines, or blockages in other organs. If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about ascariasis, it is important to seek medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosis
To diagnose ascariasis, a doctor may review the patient's symptoms and order tests. Diagnosis typically involves examining stool samples for microscopic eggs and larvae, which can indicate the presence of the parasite. Blood tests can also be performed to check for an increased number of eosinophils, which can be a sign of ascariasis. Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI may be used to visualize worms in the body or identify blockages in the liver or pancreas. If you suspect ascariasis, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of ascariasis may include slowed growth due to loss of appetite and poor absorption of digested foods, intestinal blockage and perforation, and duct blockages. In severe cases, a mass of worms can block a portion of the intestine, causing severe abdominal cramping and vomiting, and potentially leading to internal bleeding or appendicitis. Worms may also block the narrow ducts of the liver or pancreas, causing severe pain. Ascariasis can be prevented by practicing good hygiene, washing hands regularly, using care when traveling, and washing fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Home Remedies
on specific home remedies for ascariasis. It is important to follow general hygiene practices and seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment
The treatment for ascariasis typically involves anti-parasite medications, such as Albendazole, Ivermectin, or Mebendazole. These medications are the first line of treatment and are usually effective in resolving the infection. However, if the infection is mild and asymptomatic, it may resolve on its own without treatment. The specific treatment approach depends on the severity of the infection and the presence of symptoms. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.