Threadworms, roundworms and tapeworms are all leading causes of parasitic infection worldwide – but do you know the signs they could be squirming around inside you?
From easy to dismiss symptoms, like a and , to more obvious signs like worms in your poo, making sure an infection doesn't go unnoticed can help stop serious complications occurring.
While not as prevalent as in tropical regions, parasitic infections, particularly those affecting the gut, are present in the UK.
The UK Health Security Agency recently warned of a risk of – a “nasty” parasite that can cause unpleasant and sometimes dangerous illness – for families visiting farms this spring.
When it comes to parasitic worm infections, consultant gastroenterologist Dr Angad Dhillon warns threadworms in particular is one to watch out for.
is the most common parastitic worm infection in the UK, affecting a significant number of children.
And they're common in the UK because of their easy person-to-person spread.
This happens when their eggs are swallowed, typically after touching contaminated surfaces or objects, and then touching your mouth or food.
Many people with threadworms or roundworms have no symptoms, especially if the infection is mild.
Dr Dhillon
Roundworms are more common in areas with poor sanitation but can still occur in the UK, according to Dr Dhillon, especially in travellers or migrants from affected regions.
Other worms, Dr Dhillon says, there's a risk of infection in the UK are , and whipworms.
He explained: “Hookworms are usually picked by by walking barefoot on contaminated soil, especially in warm, humid climates.
“Tapeworms come from eating under-cooked meat or fish.
“And whipworms are spread through ingesting eggs from contaminated soil, often in areas with poor sanitation.”
Signs you could have an infestation
So what are some of the first signs you could have worms?
The first signs to appear usually depend on the type of worm a person has, says Dr Dhillon.
There are eight specific signs to look out for:
- Threadworms – the most common symptom is , especially at night. You might also see tiny white worms in the stool or around the anus.
- Roundworms – these can cause mild , , or a if the larvae migrate to the lungs.
- Tapeworms – unexplained , , or seeing segments of the worm in stool.
And then four more general symptoms may also appear – , nausea, , or loss of appetite.
In some cases, worms can go unnoticed.
Dr Dhillon warned: “Many people with threadworms or roundworms have no symptoms, especially if the infection is mild.
“You might only notice something is wrong if you see worms in your stool or around the bottom.
“More serious infections, like tapeworms or roundworms in large numbers, can cause nutritional deficiencies over time.”
Do worms go away on their own?
Mild cases of threadworms may eventually clear up, but re-infection is common, so treatment is usually needed.
Roundworms, tapeworms, and other parasites rarely go away without and can cause long-term health issues if left untreated.
Dr Dhillon advises: “It's always best to seek treatment to avoid spreading the infection and to prevent complications.”
What you can do to get rid of them
A single dose mebendazole (available over the counter) is usually enough to treat threadworms.
But for other worms, your doctor may prescribe specific medications such as albendazole or praziquantel.
It's also important to continue hygiene measures, such was washing hands thoroughly, showering daily, and washing bedding, clothes and towels in hot water.
Dr Dhillon added: “Keep short and avoid scratching the anal area to prevent re-infection.
“Treat the whole household – everyone in the home should be treated at the same time to stop the worms from spreading.
“And continue with long-term prevention, so regular hand washing, meat thoroughly and discouraging habits like nail-biting or thumb-sucking in children.”
Complications of having worms
Most worm infections are mild and easily treated, but in rare cases, they can cause complications.
Dr Dhillon says: “Heavy roundworm infections can lead to blockages in the gut, which might require .
“Hookworms can cause (low iron levels) because they feed on blood.
“Tapeworms can sometimes move to other parts of the body, such as the brain or liver, leading to serious infections that may cause seizures or other serious health problems.
“And threadworms are generally harmless but can cause discomfort and disturbed due to itching.”
But it's important to note in the UK, serious complications from worm infections are very rare.
The NHS recommends seeing your GP if symptoms persist after treatment or if you're concerned about a possible worm infection that isn't responding to over-the-counter medications.
Most worm infections are easy to treat with medication and good hygiene.
The NHS 111 service can also provide guidance if you're unsure about symptoms or treatment options.
Most UK pharmacists are well-equipped to advise on common worm infections like threadworms without the need for a GP appointment.
