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Embarrassing Bodies , 9:00pm Friday 19th March 2010 on Channel 4. Catch up for free »

Conditions

Threadworms

Threadworms

If we’re talking worms, then we’re talking parasites – small intestinal parasites, to be precise. It sounds hideous, but the threadworm (or ‘pinworm’) is the most common worm parasite infestation of children in the UK (although, any age can be affected). They are usually passed on through poor hygiene, live about 5-6 weeks in the gut, and then die. But before doing so, the female worms lay tiny eggs around the anus, which leads to itching during the night. The resultant scratching can lead to eggs getting onto our fingers and under our nails, which we may then swallow, beginning the cycle of infestation again. However, threadworms can usually be eradicated with medication and strict hygiene. But if you think humans have it bad, then you should consider grasshoppers, who play host to ‘hairworms’ which essentially brainwash the insects with a cocktail of chemicals that makes them commit suicide by leaping into water. In light of that – an itchy bottom is nothing!

If you’re suffering from any of the conditions featured on this site and want to apply for an onscreen consultation with one of the EB team then you can find more details here >>

Remember that you should always check with a health professional if you have any concerns about your health.

What the Men in White Coats Say

Comments and Questions

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hiya iv had threat worm 4 about 3 years now it is on and off am to imbarresd to tell my mum and woulld like to no a natural way to ge rid of them forever without going to the doctors





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I had them a couple of weeks ago. Im not sure if I still do, I havent checked. I wash my hands before & after checking.. Im going to get some Mebendazole soon, & I'm sure this will help. I did tell my mum & she was fine with it ; So tell your mum !





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my daughter 8yrs name holly pain promblem tummy and poo won.t out lots pain i am single mum worry .please me i am deaf of half hearing





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Without being rude, i think the comment 'an itchy bottom is nothing' is a massive sweeping statement and largely unprofessional. For some people like myself who have been seeking a diagnosis and treatment for over a year with no success and have to deal with intense itching on a daily basis which causes sleep deprivation and a feeling of slowly going mad...it may seem like the grasshoppers have got it easy...at least they get away from it. NEVER say to a person with a condition like this 'an itchy bottom is nothing'. It's torture...literally!





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i have them too , but i dont want to tell my mum . what shall i do ive had them for about 7 months now i knew they were worms but i never knew how to get rid of them .





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Hi Katie, Have you told your mum yet? I'm sure she'd help -they're really easy to get rid of - just one tablet from the chemist. Nothing to worry about at all, although it probably feels scary to talk about.

hello im 26 weeks pregnant and im really worried a i think i got worms im so worried its going to harm my baby please help im so embarrassed about this





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iv sufferd with it along tym and have bin to embarrissed to get treated for it but after coming on here i went and got it sorted and feel so much better wish id done it sooner fingers crossed now :D





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you can get a tablet called mebendazole you get 2 take 1 straight away then 1 after 2 weeks. this should work and you can buy it over the counter at a chemist or get a satchet like power which you add to water. If they come back its not embarassing i work at a health centre just go to your doctor no one can find out is confidentail.





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I've been reading up about threadworm and have read that pumpkin seeds (10-15 for children 20-30 for adults) garlic and raw carrots help to stop infestation. Don't know if it works, but after taking ovex tomorrow there's going to be quite a few meals with garlic and carrots :)





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I'm 15 & I've had thread for a while. it's a piece of mind to see others my age in the same situation. however, I have foundation the right medication online, but it says i have to be 16 or over to purchase it. Im too embarrassed to go to my GP or tell my mum. Can I still buy it, will the chemist make an exception im so scared And embarrassed please help me!





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It looks like no one else has asked this question, so please fill in the rest of your details below.





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Content supplied by NHS Choices

Threadworms (Enterobius vermicularis) are small worm parasites that infect the intestines of humans. Read More »

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