Whipworm

General Information on Whipworm

Whipworm infection is an intestinal infection caused by the roundworm Trichuris trichiura. It is a very common disorder and occurs mostly in the subtropics and tropics due to poor sanitation and a warm, moist climate. People come into contact with the parasite by eating food that contains eggs that have incubated in the soil. The larvae hatch in the small intestine, move to the large intestine, and embed their heads in the intestinal lining. The larvae grow into worms that are about 4 ½ inches long, and are passed in the stool.

Symptoms of Whipworm

Symptoms may include:

Abdominal pain
Diarrhea (possibly chronic)
Weight loss
Intestinal bleeding
Anemia

Treatments For Whipworm

Whipworm Infection can be prevented by taking sanitary precautions. Using sanitary restroom facilities, maintaining good personal hygiene, and avoiding unwashed fruits and vegetables can help prevent infection. Doctors can make a diagnosis by observing stool samples. The stool samples are examined under a microscope and checked for eggs. Adult worms can sometimes be found during a colonoscopy. To treat a whipworm infection albendazole or mebendazole are given.

Personal Experience

Whipworm - personal experiences