Trichuriasis is a parasitic infection caused by ingesting soil contaminated with whipworm eggs. It primarily affects children under 12 and can cause symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, fatigue, and anemia. Treatment involves medication and prevention measures include handwashing and avoiding unwashed fruits and vegetables.
Trichuriasis is an infection that occurs when an individual ingests soil that contains the ringworm parasite Trichocephalus trichiuris, also known as human whipworm. When whipworms or their eggs are ingested, they attach themselves to the lining of the large intestine and can lead to bloody diarrhea, incontinence, fatigue and anemia. Trichuriasis primarily affects children under the age of 12 whose immune systems are not yet fully developed or equipped to fight off parasitic infections. Whipworms thrive in many different locations, although they are most commonly found in tropical or humid climates and areas with insufficient sanitation.
Children get trichuriasis mainly from ingesting soil contaminated with human or animal feces. There may be several thousand whipworm eggs in just one handful of contaminated soil. Young children might consume the eggs by intentionally eating the soil or putting their dirty hands in their mouths. It is also possible to ingest eggs by eating unwashed fruits and vegetables that grow in contaminated areas.
Whipworm eggs are ingested and deposited in the small intestine, where they hatch, mature, and make their way to the large intestine. The larvae and developed whipworms attach themselves to the intestinal walls and begin to rob the body of fluids, depleting nutrient levels and damaging the colon. As a result, many children experience frequent bouts of bloody diarrhea, incontinence, and rectal prolapse, a condition in which the rectal lining protrudes from the anus. It is common for children to develop iron deficiency anemia and symptoms of dehydration when large amounts of blood and fluids are passed out.
A child or parent who notices symptoms of trichuriasis should see a primary care physician immediately, who can make an accurate diagnosis and administer treatment. A doctor usually collects a stool sample and orders a lab test known as a stool egg and parasite exam to check for whipworms. If trichuriasis is discovered, a doctor usually prescribes a drug known as mebendazole to fight the infection and kill the whipworms. Mebendazole is usually given by mouth, twice daily for up to three days or until symptoms subside.
With immediate treatment, most children are able to make a full recovery without long-term health problems. A doctor may conduct several follow-up tests to ensure that all parasites have been removed from a child’s system and that blood and fluid levels have returned to normal. Doctors and healthcare professionals strongly suggest that children of tropical and humid clients wash their hands regularly and avoid eating unwashed fruits and vegetables to prevent future trichuriasis infections.
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