Threadworms
Overview
Threadworms (pinworms) are tiny worms in your poo. They're common in children and spread easily. You can treat them without seeing a GP.
Symptoms
You can spot threadworms in your poo. They look like pieces of white thread. You might also see them around your child's bottom (anus). The worms usually come out at night while your child is sleeping. extreme itching around the anus or vagina, particularly at nightirritability and waking up during the night weight losswetting the bedirritated skin around the anus
Causes
Swallowing eggs (poor hygiene). Very contagious.
Treatment
You can buy a medicine calledmebendazolefor threadworms from pharmacies. This is usually a chewable tablet or liquid you swallow. Treat everyone over 2 years old in your household, even if they do not have symptoms. Tell the pharmacist if you need to treat a child under 2 years old, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Treatment might not be suitable and you may need to speak to a GP. If you cannot take medicine you can treat threadworms by using hygiene methods for 6 weeks.
Prevention
Strict hygiene; Digernails short; Wash hands.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: you see worms; itching is severe; or pregnant/under 2.