SICKNESS IN INFANTS AND CHILDREN: WORMS

I describe worm (more properly called intestinal parasite) infections at this point because parents so often blame them for convulsions in children. It is a safe rule that convulsions are never caused by worms.

Another misconception about intestinal parasites is that they are contracted from an infected household pet or other animal. The chief worm infections of children are contracted from human beings.

Roundworm infection (ascariasis)

These worms look like earthworms and may sometimes be seen in the bowel movements or in the child’s bed. Occasionally, one may be vomited. The worm should be saved to show the doctor.

A child infected with roundworms may become irritable and restless at night; he will probably develop an erratic or poor appetite.

The worms can be discharged from the intestine by special medicines that must be administered under a doctor’s care. Do not try to treat worms by getting medicines at a pharmacy.

Pinworm infection

The pinworm, also called the seatworm, is the most common worm to infect children. Pinworm infections occur in the intestine. The tiny worms measure less than a half inch in length. They do not debilitate a child as do heavy infestations of roundworms. But they cause trouble by their habit of coming out around the anal region during sleep. The worms irritate the region around the anus, leading to painful scratching and restless sleep. Occasionally, a pinworm will migrate into the tiny vaginal opening in a female child, where it will cause intense itching. Do not treat pinworm infections yourself.

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