Roundworms represent thread-like parasitic invertebrate worms belonging to the group Nematoda and known for causing infections of the digestive tracts in people. Their bodies are unsegmented and pointed at the ends. They are generally microscopic and invisible to the naked eye; but some of them are. There are the following main types of roundworms: pinworm, hookworm and whipworm. Commonly, parasites can be found everywhere in animal bodies, in soil, and in humans.

The intestines, the gastro-intestinal tract and in some cases the lungs become affected by roundworms. They are more frequently found in kids who due to their age underestimate the importance of hygiene and like to play with potentially contaminated things. Roundworm eggs get inside the body through the contaminated food, water and soil and cause infections. The symptoms then observed fully depend on the type of the worm and its number.

An infected person usually experiences weight loss, diarrhea, pains in the abdomen, and feeling of fatigue; allergic reactions are also possible. Adults were reported to have problems with sleeping and development of anorexia nervosa; kids can suffer from malnutrition.

Infected person can show the sighs of flu, experience vaginal or anal itching. If the infection was caused by hookworm and whipworm blood or black colored stools are possible. Severe roundworm infection in children may lead to appearance of worms in bed and stool. It is not necessarily that the symptoms will show up in full but weight loss, lack of appetite and diarrhea are sure reasons for worry in the first place.

Roundworms in humans are treated with the help of anti-parasitic drugs. Depending on the type of the roundworms certain drugs are prescribed and they are generally quite effective. They have contraindications, however, as any other drug, and pregnant women, for instance, are not recommended to take them. Infection caused by a roundworm can be chronic and therefore require different approach in the treatment.

But better than think of how to get rid of the roundworm infection it is to prevent it. The major thing is hygiene. You should avoid any risk of contaminated food, water and soil. Everything what concerns washing and cleaning should be done properly and children should be taught to follow hygienic rules. It is also recommended to stick to a healthy diet and be careful while cooking meat or fish.