🧒 Intestinal Worms in Children: A Complete Parent’s Guide

Intestinal worms in children are one of the most common health issues faced by parents worldwide. These parasites live inside the intestine and steal nutrients from food, which affects a child’s growth, development, and immunity. If left untreated, worms can lead to anemia, repeated infections, and poor weight gain.

✅ The good news is that worm infestation in children can be easily diagnosed, treated, and most importantly, prevented.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about intestinal worms in children, including symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention.

🪱 What Are Intestinal Worms in Children?

Intestinal worms are parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, pinworms, and tapeworms that live inside the intestines. Children are at higher risk of worm infestation due to:

  • Poor hygiene
  • Contaminated food
  • Unclean drinking water

These worms compete with the child for nutrients, which directly affects physical growth and overall health.

⚠️ Symptoms of Worm Infestation in Children

Sometimes children may show no symptoms at all, but parents should be alert to the following signs:

  • Poor weight gain or stunted growth
  • Pale skin and face (sign of anemia)
  • Repeated low hemoglobin in CBC blood tests
  • Frequent diarrhea or stomach issues
  • Anal itching, especially at night (common with pinworms)
  • Stomach pain, indigestion, or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite or, in some cases, increased appetite
  • Irritability and disturbed sleep
  • Cough or breathing problems (when worms reach the lungs)

👉 Note: Even if no symptoms are visible, worms may still be present.

🧪 Diagnosis of Worms in Children

The most common test is a Stool Complete Examination, which detects worm eggs.
In some cases, doctors may order additional tests to identify the specific type of worm.

Routine stool testing is especially important for children in high-risk areas.

💊 Treatment for Intestinal Worms in Children

The good news is that worms can be treated easily with safe deworming medicines.

1. For children 1–2 years old:

  • Gentel syrup (Albendazole) – 5 ml single dose

2. For children above 2 years old:

  • Gentel syrup 10 ml (400 mg Albendazole) – single dose
  • OR Vermox syrup (Mebendazole) – 5 ml in the morning and evening for 3 days
  • OR Medzol chewable tablet – 1 tablet only

3. For resistant or recurrent cases:

  • Medicines may need to be repeated weekly for up to 3 courses.

💡 Tip: Adults in the household should also take deworming medicine to prevent re-infection.

📅 How Often Should Deworming Be Done?

According to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines:

  • In areas where more than 20% of children are affected, every child should be dewormed once every 6 months, even without symptoms.

This helps prevent reinfection and protects the whole community.

🧼 Prevention of Intestinal Worms in Children

Medicines treat worms, but prevention is the best protection.

Simple Prevention Tips:

✅ Wash hands with soap before meals and after using the toilet
✅ Drink clean, boiled, or filtered water
✅ Avoid raw vegetables and undercooked meat
✅ Keep nails trimmed and clean
✅ Wash fruits and vegetables before eating
✅ Cover food properly to prevent contamination
✅ Don’t allow children to play barefoot in soil or mud

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can worms cause weight loss in children?
Yes. Worms take away nutrients, causing poor weight gain or weight loss.

2. How do I know if my child has worms?
Symptoms like anal itching, poor growth, stomach pain, or anemia suggest worms. A stool test confirms it.

3. Is deworming medicine safe for children?
Yes. Medicines like Albendazole and Mebendazole are safe and recommended by pediatricians.

4. How often should my child be dewormed?
In high-risk areas, every 6 months is recommended.

5. Can adults also get worms?
Yes. Adults can get worms and should also take treatment if needed.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Intestinal worms in children may seem minor, but if untreated, they affect growth, learning ability, and immunity. With timely treatment and proper hygiene, parents can protect their children from worms.

👉 Make deworming a regular part of your child’s healthcare routine.
👉 Prevention + Treatment = Healthy, Strong, and Worm-Free Children.