THREADWORMS

What is it?

Threadworms live in the bowel and around the bottom. They are tiny white worms about half an inch long which look like "threads" of white cotton- hence the name threadworms.

Threadworms are generally harmless. They can cause irritation around the bottom, which can be distressing and embarrassing for the sufferer and can be aggravated by scratching. Threadworms do not usually cause any long term damage.

Who gets it?

Threadworms are a very common problem, particularly in children. 40% of children below the age of 10 years are infected with threadworms, but many may not show the "itching" symptoms.

What are the symptoms?

The most common sign is scratching of the bottom, particularly at night. This may be associated with disturbed sleep and irritability and so the scratching may not be noticed. Some sufferers show no signs of infection, in which case it is a question of spotting the tiny white "thread-like" worms in motions.

What is the treatment?

Threadworms are very easy to treat. Children do not need to be kept off school. Your pharmacist can sell you suitable tablets or sachets for all the family. Since threadworms can spread so easily, it is strongly recommend that all the family are treated at the same time.

How can I stop it coming back?

Threadworms are easily treated but unless the following precautions are taken the problem may recur.

• Make sure everyone in the family is treated at the same time.
• Wash fingers and nails after each visit to the toilet and before each meal.
• Keep nails short.
• Bath daily in the mornings, washing thoroughly around the bottom.
• Change clothes and bedlinen regularly.