What is hookworm? Hookworm is an intestinal parasite of humans. The larvae and adult worms live in the small intestine can cause intestinal disease. The two main species of hookworm infecting humans are Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus.
Where do hookworms come from?
Hookworm infection is mainly acquired by walking barefoot on contaminated soil. One kind of hookworm can also be transmitted through the ingestion of larvae. Most people infected with hookworms have no symptoms.
What can hookworms do to a human?
Hookworms feed on blood in your intestines. An untreated, severe infection results in blood loss. Blood loss can lead to anemia and protein deficiency. Severe anemia can cause dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, shortness of breath and chest pain.
What does hookworm look like on human skin?
Creeping eruption is a skin infection caused by hookworms. Hookworms are found in dogs and cats. Exposure to moist sand that has been contaminated by dog or cat feces can cause creeping eruption. Creeping eruption appears as a winding, snake-like rash with blisters and itching.
How does the hookworm survive?
The larvae reach the small intestine, where they reside and mature into adults. Adult worms live in the lumen of the small intestine, where they attach to the intestinal wall with resultant blood loss by the host . Most adult worms are eliminated in 1 to 2 years, but the longevity may reach several years.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
How do you get hookworm infection?Can hookworms live in my house?
