Recognize Dwarf Tapeworm Infection

From Tips and Steps

Sometimes misdiagnosed as a pinworm infection, the dwarf tapeworm is the most common tapeworm infection diagnosed in the U.S. and throughout the world. Once you are infected, the dwarf tapeworm may reproduce inside the body and continue the infection. Most people who are infected do not have any symptoms. The following will help you recognize symptoms when they do occur.

Steps

1. Know what to look for in case of an infection.
   
   
   • Nausea.
   • Overall weakness.
   • Loss of appetite.
   • Diarrhea.
   • Stomach pains.
2. Be aware that young children (specifically those with a severe infection) may develop:
   
   
   • Headache.
   • Itchy butt.
   • Problems sleeping.
3. Ignore the myths.
   
   
   • You cannot feel a tapeworm inside your body.
   • A tapeworm infection does not normally cause weight loss.

Tips

• See your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis is made by identifying tapeworm eggs in stool. Treatment consists of the prescription drug praziquantel. More than one treatment with the drug may be required.
• Eggs can re-infect you or infect others without delay after being shed in feces.
• A dwarf tapeworm infection is typically not serious. But a prolonged, heavy infection can lead to more severe symptoms, making medical attention necessary.

Related Tips and Steps

• How to Recognize and Treat Cysticercosis (Pork Tapeworm Infection)
• How to Get Rid of Tapeworms in Your Pets
• How to Wash Your Hands
• How to Make Your Own Waterless Hand Sanitizer

Sources and Citations

• http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/hymenolepis/factsht_hymenolepis.htm

Category: Intestinal and Digestive Health