Tapeworm Symptoms in Humans
Tapeworm symptoms in humans develop from the moment tapeworm infest the intestines. This condition started ages ago.
Tapeworm symptoms in humans are due to various factors. We are fond of consuming meat, such as pork, belly or fish.
At times, we tend to prefer eating raw or uncooked foods. Generally, tapeworms do not cause any serious or life-threatening conditions, especially when the tapeworm infections is localized in the intestines.
The majority of the people who experience the tapeworm infections in adults are those who have ingested tapeworm eggs that travel through the intestines and eventually infect other organs.
Types of Tapeworm Infections in Humans
There are four different tapeworm causing tapeworm infections in humans. These are the dwarf tapeworm, pork tapeworm, beef tapeworm, and fish tapeworm.
The dwarf tapeworm or known as Hymenolepis nana is the most common and prevalent tapeworm infections in human and caused by digestion of food contaminated by fecal matter.
The pork tapeworm, or known as Taenia solium is due to consumption of contaminated pork and is responsible for the formation of cysts when the parasite travels the intestines.
The beef tapeworm, taenia saginata, results from consuming infected or contaminated beef. Lastly the fish tapeworm, scientifically known as Diphyllobothrium latum, is the largest yet least common and caused by ingestion of contaminated fish.
Development of Tapeworm Infections in Humans
Tapeworm infection in humans happen when parasites are in two different life stages. When contaminated meat is consumed, the tapeworm is in its egg form and eventually develop into a larva while it is lodged in the intestines.
When ingested as eggs, the parasites have the tendency to penetrate the intestine when it develops into the larva through the bloodstream. This will eventually cause cysts within the tissues.
When ingested as larva, the tapeworms develop into adults and lodged in the intestines. At some instances, tapeworms digest themselves through the host’s body.
Symptoms of Tapeworm Infections in Humans
Most people are often not aware that they contracted tapeworm infection. Tapeworm infections in humans often come without manifestations and at times, very few symptoms.
If a person is infected with tapeworm infection, here are the list of signs and symptoms:
- Presence of larva or segments in fecal matter
- Abdominal pain, usually above the stomach
- Diarrhea
- Nausea, at times accompanied with vomiting
- Weight loss. However, tapeworm infection due to beef or pork may cause increase in appetite
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Malnutrition
There are some cases, such as tapeworm infection in humans, may cause deficiency in Vitamin B12. The tapeworm has the tendency to absorb Vitamin B12 for its own growth. Deficiency in Vitamin B12 may later result to anemia.
Treatment of Tapeworm Infections in Humans
There are various medical treatments for tapeworm infections in humans. The primary goal is to free the body especially the intestines from tapeworm infestations.
Most treatments focus on colon cleansing and are reported to be really effective. Medications commonly include Niclosamide and Quinacrine Hydrochloride. However, these medications may have a lot of side effects.
Prevention of Tapeworm Infections in Humans
Tapeworm infections in humans are easily prevented. The topmost preventive measure is to avoid eating raw or uncooked food meats of fish, pork and beef.
Make sure to wash produce well before cooking. It is best to wash both hands first prior to consuming meals. Drink only bottled water to decrease the risk of contracting tapeworm infections in humans.
Be aware that tapeworms can be transferred through pets, thus make sure your house pets are treated.
If you are very mindful of these simple preventive measures, you will not be among the many who suffered from and deal with the unpleasant effects of tapeworm infections in humans.
