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- $Unique_ID{BRK00124}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{What is Helminthiasis?}
- $Subject{worms intestines treatment prevention Infections Parasite Parasites
- Helminthiasis intestinal nutrients gastrointestinal tract intestine Infection
- nutrient worm}
- $Volume{A-12}
- $Log{}
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- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- What is Helminthiasis?
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- QUESTION: What is helminthiasis, and how is it treated?
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- ANSWER: You're asking about intestinal parasites--unpleasant but
- unfortunately part of life, for "helminthiasis" is the term used to indicate
- an infection by an intestinal worm.
- Infection by intestinal parasites is rarely life-threatening, especially
- when the victim is in good health and proper treatment is instituted.
- Instead, discomfort and inconvenience are the more likely problems caused by
- intestinal parasites. Most intestinal parasites do their harm by robbing
- their victim of essential nutrients. They can also cause local irritation
- throughout the gastrointestinal tract.
- Diagnosis of intestinal parasites is usually done by analysis of stool
- specimens, and it is important to follow your doctor's instructions so an
- accurate diagnosis can be made. Intestinal parasites are usually treated with
- medicines that kill the parasite in the intestines, and are usually mild
- enough so that even young children can take them with few problems. Pregnant
- women, however, are usually advised to wait until after delivery before
- beginning treatment.
- Vigorous hand washing is the best way to prevent spread of intestinal
- parasites, and all medicines prescribed for intestinal parasites should be
- taken until they are discontinued by a physician.
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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