A tapeworm that's in the intestines for a long time can get big and block the appendix or other organs, leading to appendicitis and other problems. There are different types of tapeworm. One (fish tapeworm) can cause anemia because it uses up the vitamin B12 that a person needs to make red blood cells.
How long can a tapeworm stay in your body?
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. But invasive larval infections can cause serious complications.
Can tapeworms leave the body on their own?
Some people with tapeworm infections never need treatment, for the tapeworm exits the body on its own. Others don't realize they have it because they have no symptoms. However, if you're diagnosed with intestinal tapeworm infection, medication will likely be prescribed to get rid of it.
How do you know if you have a tapeworm inside you?
A tapeworm infection is usually diagnosed by finding eggs or tapeworm segments in the stool. Your doctor may ask you to bring in a sample so a lab can look for eggs, larvae, or tapeworm segments. A blood test can spot antigens, foreign substances that let your doctor know your body is trying to fight the infection.
How long can tapeworms grow in human intestines?
Tapeworms embed their heads into the intestinal wall and remain there. From there, certain types of tapeworms can produce eggs that mature into larvae that migrate to other parts of the body. A tapeworm looks like a long, white ribbon. They can grow up to 80 feet long and live in a human for up to 30 years .
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