Threadworms

Symptoms:

  • Extreme itching around the anus or vagina, particularly at night- this is due to females laying large numbers of eggs with irritant mucus at night
  • Irritability and waking up during the night
aetiology

Threadworm is a small, white, thread-like worm 2-14 mm long, which lives in the upper part of the colon. Infection is spread human to human; threadworms are not transferable to or from animals. It is commonly seen in children, due to their poor personal hygiene, which could then spread to other members of the house.

Differential dIagnosis 
  • Haemorrhoids
  • Eczema
  • Other irritants


Non-Pharmacological Treatmemt

Bathe or shower in the morning, paying particular attention to the anal/ vaginal area

Cutting fingernails short

Washing hands after the toilet and before preparing food

Wearing close fitted clothing to avoid the egg shedding

Pharmacological Treatment

Mebendazole (Ovex)

Licensing: 2 years and over

Dose: Single dose (repeated after 14 days if re-infection occurs)

Side effects: Abdominal pain or diarrhoea