There are a variety of parasitic worms that can take up residence in humans. Among them are flatworms, roundworms, and thorny-headed worms (spiny-headed worms). The risk of parasitic worm infection is higher in rural or developing regions.
Are there worms living in my body?
Worms have been living inside the human body since Homo sapiens have been around.
What is the most common worm found in humans?
Pinworms are also called “threadworms.” They're the most common type of intestinal worm infection in the U.S., and one of the most common in the world. They're thin and white, and about one-quarter to one-half inch long -- about as long as a staple. Tapeworms are flat worms that look a bit like ribbons.
How do worms get inside your body?
You can get worms in different ways, depending on what type they are. Many times people get worms by accidentally swallowing them or their eggs. Some worms can go through your skin when they are young and small. Sometimes you get worms when an infected insect bites you or when you eat meat from an infected animal.
What does worms look like in your body?
Threadworms (come out of the anus at night to lay their eggs between the buttocks, causing extreme itching. They look like small white threads moving about and may be seen with a torch. The threadworms may also be seen on the surface of the stools (poo) if a person has a heavy infestation.
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