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What are the symptoms of an unarmed tapeworm infection?
Unarmed tapeworm infection, also called teniosis, may be asymptomatic or cause various ailments. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss. In some cases, diarrhea, headaches and general weakness of the body may occur.
How can you get infected with it?
The unarmed tapeworm is a parasite that is usually transmitted to humans through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, especially pork or beef, contaminated with tapeworm eggs. You can also become infected through contact with the feces of infected animals or by eating food or water contaminated with parasite eggs.
How is an unarmed tapeworm infection diagnosed?
The diagnosis of unarmed tapeworm infection is based on laboratory tests of stool, which allow detecting the presence of parasite eggs or its fragments. In addition, your doctor may order blood tests to confirm infection.
How is unarmed tapeworm infection treated?
Treatment for unarmed tapeworm involves the use of antiparasitic drugs such as praziquantel. The doctor determines the appropriate dose and duration of therapy depending on the patient’s age and body weight. It is also important to avoid eating raw meat and maintain personal hygiene to prevent re-infection.
What are the symptoms of an armed tapeworm infection?
Armed tapeworm, also known as teniosis or dwarf tapeworm, may cause similar symptoms to its unarmed counterpart. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and weight loss. However, with armed tapeworm, nervous system disorders such as seizures may also occur.
How is a tapeworm infection diagnosed?
The diagnosis of armed tapeworm infection is based on laboratory tests of stool, as in the case of unarmed tapeworm. The detection of parasite eggs or its fragments in biological material confirms the presence of infection.
How is an armed tapeworm infection treated?
Treatment of armed tapeworm also involves the use of antiparasitic drugs, mainly praziquantel. Here, too, the dosage and duration of therapy are individually tailored to the patient. After completing treatment, it is important to monitor your health and avoid situations that may lead to re-infection.
Dwarf tapeworm
The dwarf tapeworm, also known as Hymenolepis nana, is another species of parasite that can inhabit the human digestive system. Symptoms of dwarf tapeworm infection are similar to those of unarmed and armed tapeworm, including abdominal pain and digestive upset. Treatment involves the use of antiparasitic drugs such as praziquantel.
Your suggestions
If you suspect a tapeworm infection or have other health questions, it is always best to consult your doctor or infectious disease specialist. Also take care of proper food and personal hygiene, avoid raw meat and remember to check your stool regularly, especially if you are traveling to areas with an increased risk of tapeworm infection.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in health and parasites, we also recommend reading articles about other intestinal parasites, such as roundworm or pinworm. You can also read tips on preventing infectious diseases and maintaining hygiene in everyday life.