Deworming is more commonly associated with children, but in reality, even adults run the risk of getting intestinal worms. In some cases, intestinal worms can even present more danger to its adult victims than children, especially if the individual is already suffering from amoeba-related infections as this can develop into brain and liver complications.
Particularly toddlers and small children are more susceptible to worm infestations, but adults aren’t totally exempted, especially for those who have bad body or food hygiene due to poor living conditions. Adults who have regular contact with pets or raw meat, or those who walk barefoot outdoors, may also have to undergo deworming for precaution.
Worm infestations, in its early stages, may present mild to no symptoms at all. Doctors may prescribe deworming drugs to eliminate these parasites, however, these medications do not prevent future acquisition of worms if hygiene is not improved.
Dr. Iba Mayele, an obstetrician at Dr. Plaza in Kimironko, Rwanda, says deworming is an uncommon procedure for adults. However, some diseases may be indications of intestinal worms and need to be further examined. Bloody diarrhea or abdominal pain, for example, may hint at the presence of having intestinal worms, and a doctor’s checkup will find out if they need to undergo deworming.
Why do adults need to deworm?
Deworming is important among adults with poor hygiene because it prevents the many illnesses caused by intestinal worms. When left untreated, these parasites accumulate inside the body and cause anemia, chronic malnutrition, intestinal obstruction, and even liver complications.
How often do adults need to deworm?
All adults living in poor unhygienic conditions must go at least twice a year for checkups to see whether they have grown intestinal worms. If there is a need to deworm, the doctors will then prescribe two medications – albendazole and mebendazole.
Read the full article by The New Times Publication here for more information on the need for deworming in adults.