Introduction
Have you been feeling something unusual in your body? Are you experiencing constant fatigue or extreme tiredness, even without physical exertion? Have you noticed sudden weight loss without an apparent reason? Have you noticed fluctuations in your appetite, ranging from intense hunger to a complete lack of interest in eating? Are you dealing with digestive issues such as frequent diarrhea, constipation, or persistent abdominal discomfort? Does your skin appear paler, or are your under-eye circles more pronounced than usual?
Do you experience unexplained itching in certain areas of your body, particularly around the anus? Are recurring headaches bothering you without easy relief? Have your iron levels or other vitamins dropped despite eating well? Does your immunity seem weaker, with frequent colds and infections? Are you struggling with insomnia or restless sleep for no apparent reason?
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s worth continuing to read. What could be causing this?
What Could Be Causing These Symptoms?
The most common cause of these signs is the presence of intestinal worms or parasites in the body. These microorganisms, which vary in type and severity, settle in the intestine, consuming the nutrients your body needs while releasing toxins that impair overall function. Some of the most well-known parasites include:
- Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm): Can cause malnutrition, intestinal obstruction, and respiratory issues.
What Are the Most Severe Diseases Caused by Lack of Deworming?
When parasites remain in the body for an extended period without treatment, they can cause severe damage and lead to the development of life-threatening diseases, such as:
- Intestinal obstruction: Parasites like roundworms can form large clusters that block the intestine, sometimes requiring surgical intervention.
- Severe anemia: Hookworm infections, caused by worms that feed on blood in the intestine, can lead to chronic anemia and even heart failure, especially in already weakened individuals.
- Cysticercosis: When tapeworm larvae migrate to tissues such as muscles, eyes, and the brain, they can form cysts, leading to severe neurological complications, including seizures, paralysis, and even death.
- Malabsorption syndrome: Parasites like Giardia lamblia interfere with the intestine’s ability to absorb nutrients, causing chronic malnutrition, severe diarrhea, and weakened immunity.
- Secondary infections: Parasite-induced weakened immunity can pave the way for bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, further deteriorating overall health.
- Liver or lung complications: Some parasites migrate to the liver or lungs, causing hepatic abscesses, respiratory difficulties, and other systemic complications.
- Cancer risk: Chronic infections by parasites like Schistosoma mansoni have been linked to the development of cancers, such as liver and bladder cancer.
These conditions can become severe and pose significant risks to life, especially if not identified and addressed in time. Now that we understand the severity of the problem, let’s discuss how to prevent and treat these infestations.
How Do We Contract These Parasites?
Parasite infections occur more commonly than people realize. Here are the primary modes of contamination:
Inadequate Diet
Eating contaminated food is a major cause. This includes:
- Raw, improperly washed salads that may contain parasite eggs or larvae from soil or irrigation water.
- Undercooked meat, especially pork, beef, or fish, which can carry parasites like tapeworms and Trichinella.
- Unfiltered or contaminated water, which may contain microscopic parasite eggs, such as those causing giardiasis.
Contact with Pets
Dogs, cats, and other pets can indirectly transmit parasites. Even well-cared-for pets may pose risks:
- Not washing hands after playing with pets or handling their food.
- Allowing pets to lick your face or sensitive skin areas, as they may carry parasite eggs in their mouths or paws.
- Failing to deworm pets regularly, which can allow worms like Toxocara to spread and cause severe complications in humans.
Poor Personal and Environmental Hygiene
- Failing to wash hands before meals or after using the restroom can transfer tiny parasite eggs.
- Contact with contaminated soil, such as walking barefoot in areas with animal or human feces, can expose the body to worms like hookworms.
Shared Environments and General Neglect
- Young children playing in contaminated sand or putting objects in their mouths are especially vulnerable.
- Lack of care when preparing food or consuming street food from questionable hygiene sources also increases the risk.
Understanding these often-overlooked habits is key to preventing infections and taking better care of your health.
How to Perform Deworming?
Keeping your body free from parasites requires regular care. The frequency of deworming depends on personal lifestyle and specific risk factors.
Recommended Frequency
- For those with a routine and no frequent contact with pets: Deworming once a year as a preventive measure is sufficient.
- For those with pets at home and direct contact with them: Ideally, deworm every six months. This reduces the risk of recurrent infections.
Commonly Used Deworming Medications
- Albendazole: Works efficiently against numerous intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and pinworms.
- Mebendazole: Works against various types of parasites and is typically administered in a 3-day course.
- Ivermectin: Used for infestations like pinworms and strongyloidiasis, with dosage based on body weight.
- Nitazoxanide (Annita): Effective against both intestinal parasites and protozoa, such as Giardia lamblia.
Important Precautions
- Consult a doctor prior to beginning any treatment.
- Ensure regular deworming for your pets as well.
A Curiosity About Deworming: The Influence of the Full Moon
Did you know some people believe deworming is more effective when done during a full moon?
Factors Associated with the Full Moon
- Increased parasite activity: During a full moon, some intestinal worms become more active and move within the body, making it easier for antiparasitic medications to eliminate them.
- Changes in human biology: The full moon may impact bodily fluids, like gastric juice, directly affecting the intestinal environment.
- Ancient traditions and practices: Traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, considered lunar cycles in health treatments.
While modern science continues to debate this practice, many people report better results.
Final Considerations
Keeping the body free of parasites is essential for health and well-being. Identifying symptoms and performing proper deworming can prevent severe complications like chronic diseases and even life-threatening conditions.
Prevention is the best remedy: Ensure proper food hygiene, wash your hands thoroughly, and maintain the health of your pets.
If you’re considering deworming, why not align your care with the rhythm of nature, as suggested by the full moon curiosity? But always remember: consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the most common signs of parasites in the body?
Weakness, weight loss, digestive problems, and itching are some of the most common symptoms.
2. How often should I deworm?
The recommended frequency is once a year or every six months, depending on your lifestyle.
3. Can I deworm without a doctor’s prescription?
It’s not advisable. Always consult a doctor to determine the correct medication and dosage.
4. Does the full moon really influence the effectiveness of deworming?
While there is no scientific consensus, many people report better results following this practice.
5. Do pets need deworming?
Yes, and it should be done regularly to protect both pets and their owners.
Also read about Cysticercosis and its impact on the brain at juliocemar.com
To better understand the causes of anemia and how it can be influenced by parasites, check out our article on ajustersavie.com: “Causes of Anemia: What You Need to Know.”