Threadworms are a very common type of worm infection and can affect both children and adults. They also referred to as pin worms or seat worms. Children are more prone to this infection. Threadworms live on various surfaces and can be found on toilet seats or furniture. They can also live on airborne dust particles. Since they are commonly found in many places, they are easily transmitted through contact. Threadworms can be transmitted from one individual to another and is usually seen in children. The female threadworm lays eggs in the area around the anus. This results in itching and irritation. When the area is scratched, the eggs are passed on to the individual’s fingers. These eggs can then be spread through direct contact or sharing of food or objects.
Once the individual has ingested threadworms through inhalation of a dust particle or contact with infected food or skin, the female worm begins to lay eggs in the small intestine. These eggs then move into the large intestine where they feed and grow. These worms then begin to mate and in the process the male worms die and the female worms mature and move to the anus where they start laying eggs. Threadworms usually cause itching on the skin around the anus. This becomes aggravated at night. If treatment is not administered, it can even cause vaginitis in women. The threadworms are easily detectable in the stools as thread-like worms which are about 1 centimeter in length.
Coconut oil is an effective remedy for threadworms. A tablespoon of coconut oil consumed in the morning helps in restricting the growth of threadworms. Increasing intake of garlic in the diet is also known to be effective against threadworms. Eating grated carrot every morning is another effective remedy for treating threadworms. You can also mix a teaspoon of powdered dried papaya seeds in a cup of milk and drink daily. Crushed pumpkin seeds added to boiling water can also be consumed as treatment for threadworms. Maintaining proper hygiene is necessary for preventing the spread of threadworms. It is important to wash the hands properly after visiting the bathroom and before eating meals. Undergarments and bed linen must also be changed regularly. Children that are infected must keep their nails cut short. Keeping the home clean will also help to prevent spread of threadworms. Foods and beverages containing sugar must be avoided as they can cause constipation, which is likely to aggravate the problem of threadworms.