ASCARIASIS

The severity and combination of symptoms can vary widely among individuals with ascariasis. Some individuals may have mild or no symptoms, while others may experience more pronounced and distressing symptoms.

• Chest discomfort: Chest discomfort can occur when adult roundworms migrate through the body, including the lungs. This migration may lead to irritation and inflammation in the chest area.

• Pain when coughing: Coughing is a common symptom when roundworm larvae or adult worms migrate into the respiratory system. This can lead to chest pain or discomfort, especially when coughing to expel the worms or larvae.

• Nausea: Nausea is a non-specific symptom that can occur when the presence of roundworms in the digestive tract irritates the stomach lining. It may be accompanied by a sensation of fullness or abdominal discomfort.

• Blood in the mucus: Coughing up mucus or sputum with traces of blood can occur when roundworms or their larvae are present in the lungs and cause irritation or damage to lung tissues.

• Difficulty breathing: When roundworms migrate into the respiratory system, they can obstruct air passages or cause inflammation, leading to difficulty breathing. This symptom is more common in severe cases.

• Visible worms in stool: In some cases, adult roundworms or their segments can be passed in the stool. These worms may be visible to the naked eye and are a definitive sign of ascariasis.

• Vomiting: Severe infestations of roundworms in the digestive tract can lead to nausea and vomiting. Vomiting may be more common in children with ascariasis.

• Weight loss: Persistent infestations of roundworms can interfere with nutrient absorption in the intestines, leading to weight loss and malnutrition over time.

• Intestinal obstruction and pain: In some cases, a large number of roundworms in the intestines can cause intestinal blockages or obstructions. This can result in severe abdominal pain and necessitate medical intervention.

• Loss of appetite: Ascariasis can lead to a reduced appetite, particularly in cases where the worms are interfering with the normal digestive process.

• Diarrhoea: Diarrhoea may occur due to the presence of roundworms irritating the gastrointestinal tract. It can be a symptom of ascariasis, especially in acute cases.

There is typically one main type of ascariasis, which is based on the life cycle of the parasite and its presence in different stages within the human body:

• Intestinal Ascariasis: This is the primary type of ascariasis, and it involves the adult worms residing within the human intestines. The life cycle of Ascaris lumbricoides starts when eggs are ingested through contaminated food, water, or soil. The eggs hatch in the small intestine, releasing larvae that penetrate the intestinal wall. These larvae then migrate through the bloodstream to the lungs, where they mature further. The larvae are coughed up, swallowed, and returned to the intestines, where they develop into adult worms. Adult worms can grow up to 15 inches (40 cm) in length and can live in the intestines for several months to years.

Ascariasis is more common in regions with inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices, where the risk of exposure to contaminated soil and water is higher.

• Poor hygiene in food and the ingestion of eggs or larvae: Ascariasis is often caused by the ingestion of Ascaris lumbricoides eggs or larvae that are present in contaminated food, water, or soil. When food is prepared or handled without proper hygiene, or when fruits and vegetables are not thoroughly washed or cooked, the eggs or larvae can be transferred to the mouth and ingested.

• Eating food from soil contaminated with parasites: Ascaris eggs and larvae can survive in soil for extended periods. When vegetables or other foods are grown in soil contaminated with these parasites, they can become contaminated as well. Consuming such contaminated food without proper washing or cooking can lead to infection.

• Small children playing in dirt and putting dirty fingers in their mouths: Young children are particularly susceptible to ascariasis because they often play in soil or dirt. If they have contaminated hands and then put their fingers in their mouths, they can inadvertently ingest the eggs or larvae, leading to infection.

• Faecal-oral contamination: The life cycle of the Ascaris parasite involves the passage of eggs from the intestines of infected individuals into their faeces. When proper sanitation and hygiene practices are not followed, faeces can contaminate the environment, including soil and water sources. As a result, individuals may unknowingly ingest Ascaris eggs through contaminated food, water, or hands.

The choice of medication and treatment duration may vary depending on the individual, the severity of the infection, and regional recommendations. It's important for individuals with ascariasis to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and to receive guidance on the most appropriate treatment option.

• Albendazole (Albenza): Albendazole is an antiparasitic medication that is commonly used to treat various parasitic infections, including ascariasis. It works by interfering with the parasite's ability to absorb nutrients, ultimately leading to its death. Albendazole is usually taken as a single oral dose, and it is effective in eliminating adult worms as well as larvae. It is considered one of the first-line treatments for ascariasis.

• Ivermectin (Stromectol): Ivermectin is another antiparasitic medication used to treat a range of parasitic infections, including ascariasis. It works by paralyzing and killing the parasites. Ivermectin may be used when albendazole or mebendazole is not effective or when there is a concern about resistance to these drugs. The exact dosing and treatment regimen should be determined by a healthcare provider.

• Mebendazole (Vermox): Mebendazole is an antiparasitic medication that is used to treat a variety of worm infections, including ascariasis. It works by disrupting the parasite's ability to absorb glucose, leading to its death. Mebendazole is typically taken as a single oral dose. It is considered an effective treatment for ascariasis, particularly in regions where resistance to other medications is not a concern.

Natural remedies can be considered as complementary measures to promote overall health and potentially support the body's ability to fight off infections. 

• Drink plenty of water: Staying well-hydrated is important for overall health and can help the body function optimally. Drinking enough water can aid in maintaining proper digestion and elimination of waste products, potentially reducing the risk of complications related to ascariasis.

• High-fibre diet: A diet rich in fibre from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Fibre can help prevent constipation, which may be exacerbated by ascariasis, and promote the removal of parasites from the digestive tract.

• Practise good food hygiene: Proper food handling and hygiene practices, such as washing hands before meals and thoroughly cleaning fruits and vegetables, can reduce the risk of ingesting Ascaris eggs or larvae from contaminated food.

• Rest: Adequate rest and sleep are essential for the body's overall immune function and recovery. Getting enough rest can help the body combat infections, including parasitic ones like ascariasis.

• Consume probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can promote a healthy balance of gut flora. While they may not directly eliminate Ascaris parasites, a balanced gut microbiome can support overall digestive health and immune function. Yogurt, kefir, and certain probiotic supplements can be sources of probiotics.

• Wormwood, papaya seeds, pumpkin seeds: Some natural remedies, such as wormwood, papaya seeds, and pumpkin seeds, have been traditionally used for their potential anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) properties. These natural substances may help combat intestinal parasites like Ascaris. However, their effectiveness can vary, and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before using them as a primary treatment.