signs and symptoms of hookworms in humans

A person with a heavy infection may experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue and anemia.The Ancylostoma duodenale hookworm species possesses 2 pointed ventral teeth on each side which it uses to suck blood from its host. A person with a light infection may have no symptoms. These symptoms occur when the larvae penetrate the skin. What are the signs and symptoms of hookworm Itching and a localized rash are often the first signs of infection.

Infection caused by Necator americanus, on the other hand, can occur through penetration and oral transmission as well.Hookworm larvae are also capable of penetrating human skin, causing a skin infection called cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) which manifests in the form of small, red, itchy trails. Infection from Ancylostoma duodenale occurs solely through direct contact of the skin with soil contaminated with the parasitic larvae. Mostly, Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus are the species of hookworms that cause the infection. May become dormant in the tissues of the body including the small intestine.Human hookworm infection does not cause any prominent symptoms, and that is why about 70% of people suffer from the infection without knowing about it. The most common hookworm is a particularly voracious bloodsucker and can actually bleed a puppy to death.Hookworms are another common parasite found in dogs and cats in the United. The infection is most dangerous in puppies that became infected by nursing.

Anemia may be associated with the symptoms which occur due to heavy infestation. However, people who suffer from long-term infection tend to be thin, tired, and weak. Females can produce up to 30,000 eggs per day, which are excreted in the feces, and the cycle continues.There are no specific signs of hookworm infection in humans, particularly at the start of the infection. It takes a few weeks before the larvae mature into adults and start mating.

It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert. Hookworm infection is usually not fatal, but it may be severe for infants and people who are already undernourished.Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. Problems occur when these parasites start growing rapidly in the body.The best defense against hookworm infection comprises measures such as avoiding direct skin contact with soil in areas where the infection is common, not using night soil as a form of fertilizer, and regularly deworming pets. Studies have revealed that a moderately small number of hookworms does not raise any concern, provided there is enough iron in the diet. Pyrantel pamoate is another medicine which can be used in both humans as well as dogs, however, the dosages vary. Itchy rash (at the penetrated area also called “ground itch”)Medicines such as mebendazole or albendazole are recommended for the treatment as they help in killing adult hookworms.

Signs And Symptoms Of Hookworms In Humans