Helminthic infestations can hardly be considered a rarity, and children are most susceptible to such a disease. And often during a laboratory study of stool samples, ascaris is found in a child. What is the danger of this disease? What are its main symptoms?
Ascaris worms in children and ways of infection
Roundworms are quite large parasitic worms that live in the human intestines. After entering the digestive system, parasite larvae emerge from the eggs, which, after a rather complicated developmental cycle, reach the adult stage. During the day, the female lays about 100 thousand eggs, which, together with feces, enter the external environment.
Of course, infection can occur by contact with a sick person or by sharing bedding and bath accessories. But most often, roundworm in a child is the result of non-compliance with hygiene rules. For example, helminth eggs can settle in the sand, and if after the games the child does not wash his hands, the probability of infection is very high. In addition, infection can occur when eating unwashed fruits and vegetables. In some cases, cockroaches and flies are carriers of infection.
How does roundworm manifest in a child?
It should immediately be noted that parasites secrete their own waste products that act on the child's body as an allergen. That is why in the early stages of the disease is accompanied by standard symptoms of intoxication. Children often complain of weakness, headaches, body aches. Signs of the disease can also include fever, swelling of the face. Quite often, ascariasis leads to a rash on the child's body.
In the process of development, Ascaris larvae enter the lungs, which often leads to a strong cough and the development of bronchitis.
Chronic infestations lead to an increase or, conversely, a decrease in appetite. Sometimes larvae linger in the tissues of the liver or pancreas, which contributes to the development of inflammation, the appearance of hepatic colic , etc.
Naturally, the disease simply cannot but affect the patient's behavior. Indeed, ascaris in a child often leads to a decrease in school performance, problems with concentration, and increased irritability. If we are talking about small children, then they tend to become more restless, often cry, wake up at night.
How to remove roundworms in a child?
Of course, with suspicions of such a disease, you should immediately consult a doctor. But only after fecal analyzes and some other studies can a final diagnosis be made and treatment prescribed.
Fortunately, today there are many antihelminthic drugs that quickly help get rid of the disease. Examples include drugs such as Vermox and Medamine. As a rule, to completely eliminate the parasitic infection, one dose of the drug is enough.
Only in some cases, to destroy parasites, a thin tube is introduced into the patient’s intestines through which oxygen is supplied, since roundworms are extremely sensitive to the effects of this gas. But such a treatment is used only with the ineffectiveness or inability to use the usual anthelmintic.