Hookworm Symptoms

The term 'hookworm' is used to refer to an infection that is caused by the parasite which has the same name. This parasite attacks the small intestine of the host, which can be a mammal, common being dog, cat or human. Among all the species of this parasite, there are two which are known to commonly affect humans. They are Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. The infection is known to be common in developing countries, where the importance of proper sanitary measures is not seen as a priority. Coming to hookworm symptoms in humans, some people do not exhibit any of them, while some experience extreme pain and discomfort.

Hookworm Symptoms in People
Common hookworm symptoms which may signal that the infection has set in, in some people are as follows:

    Presence of blood in feces
    Sputum may also contain blood in it
    Cough
    Diarrhea
    Fatigue
    Unexplained fever
    Gas problems
    Skin rash (itchy at most of the time)
    Poor feeding
    Nausea/vomiting
    Changes in the skin color (also known as palor)
    Discomfort in the abdominal area

Mode of Infection
The infection of hookworm in humans begins with the larvae of the parasite penetrating the skin. That is why the itchy skin rash is caused in the area which has been chosen as the entry point. Now using the bloodstream as the medium, the parasite travels up to the lungs. Later it spreads into the airways and this is what gives rise to coughing. Once the parasite gets into the wind pipe, it is swallowed and caused to reach the small intestine. It is there that the real infection begins and is manifested by all such hookworm symptoms, I have mentioned above. Now to survive, these parasites attach themselves to the walls of the intestines and feed on blood, which in turn causes a serious complication known as anemia. So some of the hookworm symptoms may be those of anemia, like fatigue, pallor (as mentioned), and a general feeling of being ill.

Hookworm Treatment
The treatment lays its focus in curing the infection, preventing complications of anemia and improve nutrition. Albendazole, mebendazole or, pyrantel pamoate are known to be the prescribed medications which are used to eliminate the intestinal parasite from the body. As far as the complications of anemia are concerned, they are treated when they surface a few days after the infection begins. Apart from medications, patients are also advised to increase the protein intake in their diet, in order to deal with the repercussions of anemia. Prognosis of the infection tends to be brighter if treatment is initiated early before any complications develop.

Hookworm Prevention
As far as prevention is concerned, there are a few simple measures which when followed diligently, are good enough to keep the infection at bay. It is advised not to defecate in places which are not meant for the purpose. Use of proper washrooms is mandatory. People must not make use of night soil as a means of manure for agriculture, nor they must walk bare foot in areas which are prone to infection. Although, hookworms in animals rarely infect humans, their larvae has the potential to cause itchy skin rash on the skin. So it is also important for you to get your pets dewormed.

You got to know from this article about hookworm symptoms, the main cause that sets off the infection, how is the infection caused and a few aspects about the treatment methods. Most importantly, you became aware of the importance of prevention, especially in developing countries, where the incidence of the infection is high. Hope the article has been informative enough, and would come in handy in case you are looking for ways to deal with it.