Silent Struggles: Recognizing and Treating Chronic Worm Infestations in Children.
We’ve likely all had them at some point…. worms. No one likes to think about it, but it is actually very common. You may remember having them as a child, or more recently dealt with them with your own children or been infected at the same time. These scenarios can be challenging, whether you have contracted them from contaminated food, water, or contact with an infected individual. Parasitic worms can find their way into our bodies and cause a range of health issues.
In this blog, we look at what is a chronic worm infestation and the signs and symptoms to look out for. Plus, what the treatment looks like and how you can support your body holistically.
What is a Chronic Worm Infestation?
A chronic worm infestation, also known as a parasitic infection, occurs when parasitic worms, also called helminths, invade and persist within the human body over an extended period. These worms can inhabit various parts of the body, including the intestines, muscles, and other tissues. Common types of parasitic worms include roundworms (nematodes), tapeworms (cestodes), and flukes (trematodes).
Chronic infestations are particularly problematic as they can lead to long-term health issues. The persistence of these parasites in the body can cause a range of symptoms and may significantly impact an individual’s overall health and well-being.
Signs and Symptoms of Worm Infestation
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a worm infestation is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms can vary depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infestation. Signs and symptoms often include:
Digestive Issues: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and bloating are common symptoms. Some individuals may also experience changes in appetite, either increased or decreased.
Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss. This occurs due to the parasites consuming nutrients that the body needs.
Fatigue: Chronic fatigue and weakness may result from the body's constant fight against the parasites.
Skin Irritations: Itchy rashes, hives, or other skin irritations can be indicative of a parasitic infection.
Anal Itching: This is particularly common with pinworm infections and can be more noticeable at night. Especially noticeable 2-3 hours after bedtime when the worms become active.
Vagina or Vulva Itchiness. For girls (children), worms can often present as itchiness or redness around the vagina or vulva, due to the close proximity of the anus and vagina. The worms can lay eggs in both areas. Symptoms similar to a UTI, may also be present if the worms enter the vagina or urethra.
Respiratory Issues: In some cases, parasites can migrate to the lungs, causing cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Behavioural issues: Behavioural changes are common in children with worms. This may present as mood swings or irritability.
Sleep Disturbances: Worms can be most active at night, so therefore may lead to disruptions in sleep.
Over-the-Counter Treatments First
When dealing with a suspected worm infestation, the first line of treatment typically involves over-the-counter medications. These medications are readily available. They can effectively target common types of intestinal worms.
While these over-the-counter medications can be effective, I always recommend that parents follow up with supportive naturopathic treatments. This ensures a complete eradication of the worms/parasites and restores optimal gut health.
Naturopathic Support with worms
Naturopathic support with worms, focuses on enhancing the body’s natural defences. When dealing with chronic worm infestations, these are some of the naturopathic approaches I recommend:
Probiotics:
Beneficial bacteria can help restore the natural balance of the gut microbiome. Probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains are particularly useful.
Garlic:
Known for its antiparasitic properties, garlic can be a potent natural remedy. Allicin, a compound found in garlic, has been shown to be effective against various types of worms.
Pumpkin Seeds:
These seeds contain cucurbitacin, a compound that can paralyse worms and facilitate their removal from the body.
Papaya Seeds:
Rich in proteolytic enzymes like papain, papaya seeds and may help break down the worms and expel them from the digestive tract.
Herbal Teas:
Herbs such as wormwood, black walnut, and clove are traditionally used to treat parasitic infections. These herbs can be consumed as teas or in supplement form.
Herbal Tinctures:
Herbal tinctures are personalised for the patient to include the herbs to best support your body. They are great for helping with various health issues.
Other recommendations:
Maintaining gut health is critical, especially after a parasitic infection. The following herbs and nutritional strategies can help restore and maintain a healthy gut:
Dietary Changes:
Probiotics and Prebiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the gut microbiome. Probiotics as mentioned above, can be taken as a supplements or included in foods as well. Likewise, prebiotics, on the other hand, are non-digestible fibres that feed these beneficial bacteria. Foods rich in prebiotics include garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, and bananas.
A diet rich in fibre can help support digestive health and facilitate the removal of parasites. Incorporating foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods can be beneficial.
Bone Broth: Rich in collagen and gelatin, bone broth can help repair the gut lining and support overall gut health.
Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the gut lining.
Turmeric: This spice contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support gut health.
Ginger: Ginger can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut.
Glutamine: An amino acid that is essential for the repair and maintenance of the gut lining. It can be taken as a supplement or found in foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats, found in fish oil, flaxseeds, and chia seeds, have anti-inflammatory properties that can support gut health.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is essential to help flush out the toxins from the body.
Regular Monitoring: Follow-up stool tests may be necessary to ensure the infestation has been completely eradicated.
Chronic worm infestations can be a significant health concern, but with the right combination of over-the-counter medications and naturopathic support, they can be effectively managed and eradicated. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early, seeking appropriate treatment, and supporting gut health through herbs and nutrition are key steps in recovering from and preventing future infestations for you, your child and family.
If you need help with the holistic aspect, then reach out and we can work out a plan together to not only eliminate the parasites but also restore and maintain optimal gut health.
