Threadworm: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Threadworms

Threadworms are small parasitic worms that infect the intestines, causing discomfort. Common in young children, but can infect anyone. Find out more about this common condition.

Recommended Actions

For threadworm treatment, initiating a course of antiparasitic medication like mebendazole is recommended. Treat all household members, regardless of symptoms, and maintain high hygiene standards to prevent reinfection.

Recommended Avoidances

To prevent the spread of threadworms, avoid scratching the infected area, bed-sharing, nail-biting or thumb-sucking, and ensure hands are washed before eating to minimize the risk of reinfection.

Prevention Tips

For threadworm prevention, focus on regular handwashing, daily changing and washing of underwear, bed linen, and nightclothes, as well as frequent cleaning of kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Condition 101

Threadworms, also known as pinworms, are tiny parasitic worms that infect the intestines and cause discomfort. These white, thread-like worms commonly affect young children, though anyone can be infected.

Intense anal or vaginal itching
Irritability or restlessness
Weight loss
Disturbed sleep
Presence of worms in stools or on underwear
Threadworms are caused by ingesting threadworm eggs, which can be spread easily, especially:

Through contact with an infected person’s hands or clothes
By touching contaminated surfaces or objects
In contaminated food or dust
Attending nursery or school (where close contact is routine)
Living in crowded places
Poor personal hygiene
You spot signs of threadworms in your or your child's stool
You experience persistent itching around the anus or vagina
Over-the-counter treatments haven't worked
The infected person is pregnant or breastfeeding

Diagnosis, according to Mayo Clinic, may involve a tape test. The method consists of pressing a piece of clear tape to the skin around the anus in the morning, which can then be examined for eggs under a microscope.
Difficulty sleeping due to itching
Skin infection from scratching
Weight loss or nutritional deficiencies
Threadworms are often mistaken for dietary fibres in stool. They are also not a result of poor hygiene, though maintaining cleanliness can prevent their spread.
Haemorrhoids
Dermatitis
Allergic reactions

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Treatment Options

Need more information about Threadworm, contact us for more help on treatment or advise.

Over-the-counter remedies like barrier creams containing zinc oxide or petroleum jelly can be effective. Antifungal creams are used for rashes caused by yeast infections.

In severe cases, your doctor might prescribe a mild steroid cream or an antibiotic cream if a bacterial infection is suspected.

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