Threadworms are tiny parasites that live in the bowel and can occur extremely commonly, particularly in children. Most occurrences of worms in humans can be easily treated and nothing to worry about, but they can quickly spread to other members of your family, which is why it is important to deal with them quickly. Book an appointment with your GP if you believe you have a type of worm other than threadworms.
Fortunately, threadworm tablets are easily accessible, and Weldricks stock both these and Ovex Suspension, as well as the Ovex Family Pack which includes four sets of treatment in case everyone is unfortunate enough to get infected.
FAQ
How do worms affect humans?
There are many different types of worms and some can infect people. Depending on the type of worm, some can be caught in the UK and others are only caught abroad. For the majority, worm infections are not serious and can be easily treated.
A common worm infection is threadworms. These are small, white worms that you will find in your poo. They cause itching around your anus and it can particularly be irritated at night. They are common in the UK and can be treated with products from a pharmacy. If you are worried about a worm infection or symptoms not being relieved, it is important to discuss your concerns with a GP.
How do I know if I have worms?
You can normally spot threadworms in your faeces. They look like small white pieces of thread. You’ll likely experience increased itchiness in the anus and women may also experience this in the vagina. This typically occurs more at night when threadworms come out to lay their eggs.
Less common symptoms may include weight loss, skin irritation (around the anus) and wetting the bed.
What worm treatments are available?
Threadworms can be treated without the need to see your GP in some cases. The most common treatment for worms in humans is worming tablets, however, other treatment is available such as Ovex Suspension.
Worms can spread extremely quickly, so it’s important that everyone in your household is being careful and taking treatment if worms are suspected.
If you believe you have a type of worm other than threadworms, you should make an appointment with your GP. They will be able to examine you, identify your worms and prescribe an appropriate course of treatment. You can also go to your GP for threadworms to make sure you are being monitored during treatment.
There are some easy steps you can take at home to reduce the spread of worms and to prevent them from returning:
- Wash hands regularly and thoroughly, especially before eating or after going to the toilet
- Keep fingernails clean and short
- Make sure everyone wears underwear at night
- Wash sleepwear, towels and sheets daily or after every use until several days after finishing your treatment
- Take extra care to disinfect kitchen and bathroom surfaces
- Bathe or shower regularly
These steps can also help to reduce itching from worms. Anti-itching creams and ointments, but it’s still important to make sure you take appropriate medication to treat the cause as well as the symptoms.