Has your child got threadworms? Here’s the symptoms – and how you can get rid of them
Here's all you need to know to find out if your kid has threadworms - and what to do about it if they do
A PRESCHOOL in Cheltenham has put out an alert to parents to be on the lookout for threadworms after a child became infected.
The common condition is not harmful but can be spread easily, according to the NHS.
Here’s all the information you need on threadworms, also known as pinworms – what do you need to look out for? What are the symptoms? How can they be got rid of?
Signs you have threadworms
The worms, which look like pieces of white thread, can be found in your poo.
They can also be seen around your child’s bottom.
The worms usually come out at night whilst your child is sleeping.
What are the symptoms and side-affects?
The most common sign is extreme itching around the genitals, especially the bottom.
They can also cause irritability and waking up during the night.
Less common signs include: weight loss, wetting the bed and irritated skin around the bottom.
Medical treatment required
A visit to your local pharmacist is all that is required, you don’t need to go to see your GP.
Over-the-counter medicine is available, usually a chewable tablet or a liquid.
But do mention to the pharmacist if your child is under the age of two or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Everyone in the household needs to be treated not just those who are seemingly affected.
Action required at home
While the medicine will kill the worms it won’t kill the eggs. There are a number of do’s and don'ts around the home.
DO
Wash your hands and scrub under your fingernails, especially before eating and after using the toilet or changing nappies
Encourage your children to wash their hands regularly
Bathe or shower every morning
Rise toothbrushes before using them
Clip fingernails and keep them short
Wash pyjamas and nighties, sheets, towels and soft toys – at a normal temperature
Disinfect kitchen and bathroom surfaces
Vacuum and dust with a damp cloth
Ensure children wear underwear at night and change it in the morning
DON’T
Share towels or flannels
Shake clothing or bedding – to prevent eggs spreading to other areas
Bite nails or suck thumbs or fingers.
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How threadworms are spread
Threadworms spread when their eggs are swallowed.
They lay eggs around your bottom, which make it itchy. The eggs get stuck on your fingers when you scratch. They can then pass on to anything you touch.
Eggs can then pass to other people when they touch these surfaces and touch their mouth.
They take around two weeks to hatch.
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