Ascariasis can be one of the most dangerous diseases known to man. This is because it does not only cause much damage to the body, it is also very hard to detect. This article will provide you with certain information about the condition so that you can prepare yourself properly if ever you encounter such a life threatening disease.
Causes
- Ascariasis is a kind of parasitic disease caused by a specific type of roundworm called Ascaris Lumbricoides. This condition is most commonly seen in tropical countries in some parts of Europe as well.
- According to recent researches, some people have a genetic predisposition to being susceptible to Ascariasis.
How can one get this?
Most people with this disease got it from eating food that has been contaminated with Ascaris eggs. Upon hatching, the larvae will bury itself into the intestinal wall and eventually go up into the respiratory tract.
After this, they can be reswallowed and plant themselves into the intestines again and grow up to 30 cm in length. The danger here is that it is usually an asymptomatic disease especially when the worms are tiny.
The Signs
However, symptoms may occur in rare cases. Here are some of those as follows:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Constipation in severe cases- Constipation happens when the worms block the passageway of the fecal matter
In these cases, malnutrition can also happen because the worms can save a lot of nutrients from the host. This is why it is very important to have yourself checked regularly by the doctor so that you can take early prevention methods.
How can one get it?
People get it through intake of four or any type of matter that had been contaminated by the ascaris. You can also get it from the soil as well as from physical contact with dirt or waste products.
Prevention
In order to prevent Ascariasis, you must take the necessary precautions that are recommended.
- First, you must prevent yourself from the meeting contaminated food. You must always check food sources of so that you would be able to determine whether the food is contaminated or not.
- The next thing that you have to remember is to not put fallen food items into your mouth any longer. This is because it may have gotten a significant amount of dirt already while on the ground.
- Always maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands before and after eating.
- Practice proper waste disposal. You should be able to dispose of your personal and bodily wastes properly.
Treatment
There are certain medications that you can take for treatment of Ascariasis. Some of these are as follows:
- Albendazole
- Thiabendazole
- Hexylresorcinol
- Mebendazole
- Piperazine
- Pyrantal Parmoate
- Chenopodium Oil
Make sure to have yourself checked by the doctor first before you take any of these medications. Knowing the proper dosage is important when it comes to taking any kind of medication. These are just some of the most important pieces of information that can help you understand what Ascariasis is and how you can prevent it in the future.
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