Intestinal worms increase your risk for anemia and intestinal blockages, as well as malnutrition. Complications occur more frequently in older adults and in people who have suppressed immune systems, such as people with HIV/AIDS infection. Intestinal worm infections can pose a higher risk if you're pregnant.
Can worms damage your insides?
Complications. Intestinal worms may increase the risk of certain health issues in the body. Some intestinal worms may make it difficult for the body to absorb protein or cause a loss of blood and iron, which could lead to anemia. Intestinal worms may also affect a person's ability to pass food through the intestines.
Can intestinal worms cause damage?
Some of them have the potential to cause problems that can last years. Parasites can also contribute to inflammation, immune impairment, and even autoimmune activation. Helminths and protozoa are the two main types of intestinal parasites.
What happens if intestinal worms go untreated?
The symptoms may be mild and non-specific, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Untreated tapeworms can live for years, and can lead to malnutrition. Long-term complications could include headaches, blindness, and seizures.
How long can you live with intestinal worms?
When you have an intestinal tapeworm infection, the tapeworm head adheres to the intestinal wall, and the proglottids grow and produce eggs. Adult tapeworms can live for up to 30 years in a host. Intestinal tapeworm infections are usually mild, with only one or two adult tapeworms.
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