Pinworms are scientifically known as Enterobius vermicularis. They are most common intestinal parasites. Normally, the infection starts off from school children. This infection is very contagious, hence can spread to the entire family. Research points to the fact, that pinworm infection is twice as common as head lice. They inhabit the large intestines. The average size of male pinworms is 5 mm and that of female pinworms is 10 mm. The males drop dead after copulation. When the female is about to lay eggs, she makes her way to the anus and the eggs are deposited on the perineum. Once the eggs are deposited the female also dies. The most common symptoms of pinworm is rectal itching. If the condition is mild, then pinworm treatment may not be required.
Causes of Pinworms
Pinworms in humans is spread from one person to another. Often it is seen that pinworms in children can cause infections in the entire family. When a female pinworm lays eggs on the perineal skin, it causes itching and scratching of the area. Due to scratching, the eggs make their way onto the fingers. The infection can be passed on by direct contact or also through sharing things. Sometimes, pinworms make their way onto the bed linen and can spread to other people.
Symptoms of Pinworms
The most common symptom of pinworms in adults and children is itching around the anus. The itching sensation is normally at night, when female pinworms make their way to the anus region to lay eggs. In case of pinworms in women and girls, they may cause vaginitis, which is inflammation of the vagina. Vaginitis is caused because pinworms make their way into the vagina. On close observation, pinworms can be seen in stools as well.
When it is noticed that a person is suffering from pinworms, pinworm medication should be given to the person immediately. For treating pinworm, over the counter medications are available. At the same time, it is also important that all the family members are also given the medicine simultaneously. This helps in treating the condition at the earliest. Albendazole is the medicine most commonly used for treating pinworm infection. Only single dosage of this tablet has to be taken. It kills the worms. The tablet is available in different strengths for adults and children. If your child is below two years of age, it is important to mention it to the chemist, so that you get the right dose for your child. Pinworm eggs live for about a couple of weeks. Therefore, it is important to repeat the dose after 3 to 4 weeks to eliminate chances of reinfection.
The other pinworm medication is mebendazole. It also comes in single dose. Like albendazole, it should also be taken by all members of the family together. It is also necessary to repeat a dose of mebendazole again after 3 to 4 weeks. For treating pinworm during pregnancy, it is best to talk to your gynecologist and obstetrician. Depending on the trimester you are in and your health condition, they will be able to treat your better.
The natural treatment includes tap water enemas to get rid of pinworm eggs and pinworms. They help in reducing the symptoms as well. Common salt, garlic, papaya seeds, pumpkin juice, fig juice, etc., can also be used for treating pinworm naturally.
The best treatment is to take precaution against pinworm. Maintaining hygiene will prove to be of help in solving the problem. It is important to wash hands after a visit to the washroom. Make it a habit with your children to wash their hands before eating. After you have taken pinworm medication, wash all the bed linen and sheets, clothes, children toys to get rid of any eggs, that have made their way on to these things. A precautionary measure recommended, is to wash bed linen at least once a week; twice would be ideal.
From this article on 'pinworm treatment' it is clear that pinworms are contagious. Make it a point that pinworm medication is taken by all the family members at one time. Maintaining basic hygiene will help in keeping pinworm infection at bay. If your child is young, it is best to give the pinworm medication after consulting the pediatrician.