Common in children, pinworm causes severe itching in the anus. In question, parasitic worms present in the intestine. Pinworms then cause a number of symptoms. In parallel with an antiparasitic treatment, there are natural dewormers. Discover all the solutions to overcome pinworms. And follow our advice to prevent the risk of recurrence.
Summary
Pinworms: What is that ?
Pinworm infection is an intestinal parasitic infection characterized by pruritus ani. Pinworms are generally observed in children and their family circle. It is a common intestinal worm in France.
The adult parasites live in the intestine and each female lays an average of 10,000 eggs towards the anus. They are then eliminated in the stool and resist up to two weeks in the external environment (underwear, sheets, etc.).
The causes
The parasite responsible for the infection is called enterobius vermicularis. It infects humans by ingesting eggs through food. Ingested eggs release larvae in the stomach. These then migrate to the intestine and become adult parasites within thirty days.
There is contamination within a family. This is explained by the carrying of soiled fingers to the mouth. There is also a risk of self-infestation by scratching the anus.
Symptoms
Some signs are characteristic of an infection:
- itching. This is the typical symptom of pinworms. Usually pruritus ani occurs in the evening or at night;
- on the other hand, abdominal pain and diarrhea may occur;
- affected subjects become irritable and suffer from insomnia or nightmares;
- in children, onychophagia (nail biting) may be a sign of pinworm infection;
- and sometimes convulsions appear in young subjects;
- in the girl, infection of the vulva and vagina is possible. This is then accompanied by difficulty in urination and incontinence;
- and in women, vaginal discharge may occur, as well as vaginitis or salpingitis. This is an inflammation of the uterine tubes;
- Finally, in the most serious cases, pinworms lead to significant weight loss, and will trigger appendicitis.
Note that the doctor will notice eczema lesions in the anus related to scratching. And in case of contamination, you will also observe small mobile white worms in the stool, on the anus, on the underwear, in the sheets…
Natural treatments for pinworms
A parasite treatment adapted to the subject is recommended in the event of contamination. The entourage will also be treated with medication. But beyond dewormers, there are good actions to adopt in order to eliminate worms and avoid any (frequent) recurrence.
The right things to do
Clean sheets, blankets, clothing and underwear. All laundry should be washed at or above 60°C. This concerns both the infested subject and the family circle. Also remember to clean the toys if necessary. And also wash the floors of the rooms to avoid any contamination. Finally, at night, prefer closed pajamas to avoid direct contact of the fingers on the anus during nocturnal scratching.
Prevention
There are also preventive measures to adopt to avoid pinworms. This begins with proper hand hygiene. Wash them thoroughly after each bowel movement and before each meal. Brush and cut children’s nails short to prevent any risk of self-infestation.
Homeopathic treatment
Homeopathy is a natural way to overcome pinworms. Take 3 granules of Cina 9 CH every evening for one to two months.
The celery
Infuse celery leaves for about ten minutes. Then filter. Then take a cup three times a day after each meal for a few days. Respect an interval of two to three weeks after each cure.
Phytotherapy
The use of plants can have a beneficial effect against pinworms: turmeric, fenugreek, cinnamon, mountain savory, ginger, cloves, pomegranate, garlic, thyme…
These natural remedies can be used alone or in combination. This supplement, which brings together all the plants, is called Oxoplex. There is also a version for children.
Dietary supplement
To the parasitic treatment, it is advisable to associate the taking of a food supplement in order to restore the intestinal mucosa. So you can use the Boswellia serrata plant. Take 1.5g of extract daily for at least six weeks.
Probiotics
Add probiotics to your diet. It can be plain yogurt or food supplements with probiotics. They help stimulate healthy bacteria in the digestive system. This then creates a less favorable environment for pinworms.
Apple cider vinegar
This natural product represents a powerful grandmother’s remedy. Drink a few teaspoons of apple cider vinegar mixed in water daily. This creates an inhospitable environment for pinworms.
garlic
Consume garlic to eliminate intestinal worms. Add to food or take a garlic supplement (capsules) several times a day for several weeks. Wait until the symptoms have disappeared before stopping this natural treatment.
Note: you can absolutely crush garlic (two cloves) and add honey.
Reduce your sugar intake
Pinworms love sugar. Therefore, it is strongly advised to reduce its consumption. Limit foods that contain starch or sugar as much as possible because the pinworms feed on them.
Grapefruit seed extract
To treat a pinworm infestation, take grapefruit seed extract. You can easily find it in specialty stores.
This natural product seems to be a very good parasite. In tablet form, take three times a day. And in liquid form, take 10 drops mixed with a glass of water (three times a day).
