The contagion of the annoying worms (pinworms) It occurs in environments where there are many children, such as schools or parks, when they touch objects contaminated (pencils, toys, towels, bed linen) with microscopic eggs from another affected child who has scratched the anal area and has not washed his or her hands properly. Although this infection may be a cause for concern, it is very common and its treatment is simple.
When another child manipulates those infested objects, you can pick up the eggs without realizing it, although you will only become infected if you put your hands in your mouth. It is important to note that eggs can survive in the environment for up to three weeks, which increases the chances of infection.
What are worms and why do they affect children?
Pinworms, whose scientific name is enterobius vermicularis, are small, whitish, elongated parasites, with a length of between 1 and 2 centimeters. This type of infection is especially common in children due to their hygiene habits, which are not yet as meticulous as those of adults. According to the Spanish Association of Pediatrics, between XNUMX and XNUMX centimeters in children, 40% and 50% of school-aged children have had worms at some point.
Adult worms inhabit the large intestine, and females deposit the eggs in the perianal region, mainly at night, which causes intense itching and often leads the child to scratch, thus facilitating the cycle of reinfection.
Main symptoms of intestinal worms
Symptoms of worms begin to appear about a month after infection, as this is the time they need to develop in the body. The most common signs include:
- Itching in the anal area:This symptom, also known as anal itching, worsens at night, as this is the time when females lay eggs.
- Skin irritations:Continuous scratching can cause lesions in the perianal and genital areas.
- Insomnia and nervousness: Nighttime discomfort can interfere with a child's sleep, causing irritability.
- Possible abdominal discomfort:Although less common, some children experience mild abdominal pain.
In girls, worms can spread to the vaginal area, causing additional discomfort such as irritation or discharge.
Diagnosis of worms
Diagnosis of this infection can be done through two main methods:
- Live View: Worms can be seen in the perianal area of ​​the child, especially at night. They can also appear in the stool or on the underwear.
- Graham test: It involves applying a piece of transparent adhesive tape to the anal region early in the morning, before the child washes. This tape is then analysed under a microscope to identify the eggs.
How to treat intestinal worms
Getting rid of worms is quick and easy. Treatment includes:
- Antiparasitic medications: The pediatrician may prescribe drugs such as mebendazole or pyrantel pamoate, which kill adult worms in one dose. The dose should be repeated after two weeks to kill any eggs or larvae that have survived.
- Additional hygiene measures: Morning baths, daily change of underwear and washing bed linen and towels in hot water are essential to prevent reinfection.
- Soothing treatments: In case of skin irritation, a mild cream can be applied to relieve itching.
Preventive measures to avoid worms
Avoiding infection and reinfection is possible by following strict hygiene measures:
- Frequent hand washing: It is essential to insist on proper washing with soap and water, especially after going to the bathroom and before eating.
- Hygiene in the perianal area: It is recommended to clean the child's buttocks and anus after each bowel movement.
- Short and clean nails: Keeping your nails well trimmed prevents eggs from accumulating underneath them.
- High temperature washing: Bedding, towels and underwear should be washed in hot water to destroy eggs.
- Avoid sharing personal items: Such as towels or underwear, since they can be a vehicle of contagion.
- Closed pajamas: They help prevent the child from scratching himself while sleeping.
With these simple measures, you not only control the spread of worms, but you also limit the possibility of reinfection among family members.
Intestinal worm infection is one of the most common infections in childhood, but fortunately, it is easy to treat and prevent. Keeping proper hygiene habits And by going to the doctor at the first symptoms, complications can be avoided and the well-being of the little ones can be guaranteed.