What is it?
Tapeworm infection is caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with tapeworm eggs or larvae.A tapeworm cannot live freely on its own and it survives within the gut of animals, including humans. Tapeworm eggs normally enter the human host from animals via food, especially raw or undercooked meat. Humans can also become infected if there is contact with animal feces or contaminated water.
What are the symptoms?
Infection with a tapeworm does not usually cause symptoms. If there are signs and symptoms, they include:
- Abdominal pain.
- Diarrhoea.
- Fatigue.
- Hunger.
- Lack of appetite.
- Nausea.
- Passing worms (tapeworm segments) in the stool.
- Weight loss.
What to expect?
If you are diagnosed with tapeworm infection, you can consider discussing the following subjects with your doctor:
- Do you need tests?
- What are your treatment options?
- If treatment is successful, how can you prevent contracting the disease again?