It’s a topic that falls into the same category as head lice, you almost want to avoid speaking about it but, it’s very common and based on research data, you’ve either had it or you are going to have it.

Let’s take a few sentences to get a little more comfortable about this topic from a scientific perspective. Parasites are organisms that live in and feed off a living host. There are a variety of parasitic worms that can take up residence in humans. Among them are flatworms, thorny-headed worms, and roundworms.

The risk of parasitic infection is higher in rural or developing regions. The risk is greater in places where food and drinking water may be contaminated and sanitation is poor. We will focus on the common worms that most will encounter however; worms such as Tapeworm (which can grow up to 80 feet long and survive in humans for decades), hookworms and flukes are the nastier worms that you would prefer not to have living in your body.

Pinworms  on the other hand are tiny, fairly harmless worms. They’re more common in children. Worms, when fully matured, live in the colon and rectum. The female lays eggs around the anus, usually during the night.

The eggs can survive on bedding, clothing, and other materials. People contract them when they touch the eggs and end up putting them in their mouths. The eggs are so small you can even breathe them in if they become airborne. They’re easily passed among children and caregivers or in institutions.

What are the symptoms of a pinworm infection?

Some individuals with pinworm infections may not experience any symptoms. However, you may suspect that you or your child has a pinworm infection if you notice:

• frequent and strong itching of the anal area
• restless sleep due to anal itching and discomfort
• pain, rash, or other skin irritation around the anus
• the presence of pinworms in the area of your child’s anus
• the presence of pinworms in stools

What are the treatment options for a pinworm infection?

You can get rid of pinworms with the help of medications and household cleaning strategies

Since pinworms pass so easily from one person to another, everyone living in the household of an infected person usually needs treatment at the same time to prevent reinfection.

Caregivers and others who have close, personal contact with the individual should also receive treatment.

The most common medications to treat pinworm infection are:

• mebendazole

One course of medication usually involves an initial dose, followed by a second dose two to three weeks later. More than one course may be necessary to fully eliminate the pinworm eggs. Creams or ointments can soothe itching skin in the area around the anus.

Natural remedies and medicines

A number of quality natural remedies and herbal medicines are available for supporting the body to eliminated worm infestations (threadworms and pinworms). Seek out products with effective herbal ingredients such as Black Walnut, Wormwood & Clove Flower; a combination of these powerful herbs offers a great way to help the body rid itself of worm infestations.

Be safe and stay healthy

Always speak to your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen